Government departments need to be clearer and more proactive in how they procure and publicise £1.4 billion in research and development, the UK's spending watchdog says today.

The National Audit Office says departments need to be clear about their strategic research aims and establish coherent systems for procuring research.

Whilst the report finds better research procurement it says more could be done to simplify and streamline the process.

It also calls on Whitehall to have a clearer understanding of future research needs and capability and consult research users to prioritise their requirements.

Departments also need to be proactive and innovative in the way they disseminate and use research findings, says the report.

The watchdog also says that Whitehall "should identify and share best practice to improve the effectiveness of commissioning, managing and using research".

By implementing a programme of external reviews and interdepartmental benchmarking, the Office of Science and Technology will assist this.

NAO chief Sir John Bourn said: "I welcome the steps already made to modernise the way departments procure research. These are encouraging developments. The recommendations in this report should lead to further improvements."