Graham met the first scientist ever to be allowed to carry out explosive chemistry experiments in the House of Commons at an event held by the Royal Society of Chemistry in Parliament.
He met with representatives from the society to talk about the importance of scientific research to the UK economy and Weaver Vale and take part in some loud and colourful chemistry experiments performed by Dr Hal Sosabowski from the University of Brighton. TV scientist Dr Sosabowski launched UNESCO’s International Year of Chemistry at the Houses of Parliament with a show of chemistry demonstrations in 2011.
Graham said: “I witnessed the whizzes and bangs of chemistry first-hand as Dr Sosabowski showed off the science behind glow sticks, a liquid nitrogen shower and a flaming methane mamba of soap bubbles. But behind the colourful chemicals and exciting explosions the event was an opportunity to discuss the need for a long-term strategy for UK science funding to drive economic growth and create jobs.
“It certainly wasn’t a normal day in Parliament, seeing bright and explosive chemistry experiments. Britain is a world leader in science and the chemical sector alone sustains 500,000 jobs across the country. It was a fantastic way to find out more about the contribution that science makes to the UK economy, especially here in Weaver Vale.”