1. Supporting free speech for scientists

The Lib Dems have committed in their manifesto to protect free speech, investigative journalism and academic peer-reviewed publishing through reform of the English and Welsh libel laws – including by requiring corporations to show damage and prove malice or recklessness, and by providing a robust responsible journalism defence. They were the first of the major parties to make a commitment on this issue and have supported Simon Singh's battle against legal intimidation by the BCA.

2. Repealing the Digital Economy Act

The Lib Dems voted against the adoption of the Digital Economy Bill, which was passed during the washup without proper scrutiny. Nick Clegg has stated that he wants the bill repealed and all issues in it debated by a full parliament.

3. Protecting the science budget

Spending is going to be tight in the next parliament and no parties have made promises to increase science funding. In their manifesto, however, the Lib Dems have pledged that any funds allocated to science research will not be used for other purposes. They will also ensure that decisions on the funding of research projects are made on the basis of peer review, not Whitehall interference. In a letter to the Campaign for Science and Engineering, Nick Clegg also promised that science funding would not be cut in the first year of a new Parliament.

4. Supporting independent expert advice

The Lib Dems will always base drugs policy on independent scientific advice, including making the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs completely independent of government. Lib Dem MP Evan Harris tabled an urgent question to the Home Secretary following the 'sacking' of former chief drugs advisor Professor David Nutt and has since maintained the pressure on Alan Johnson to explain his actions. Nick Clegg has also criticised government interference in the provision of expert advice.

5. Making further study affordable

The Lib Dems will phase out tuition fees for university students over a 6 year period, meaning that those wishing to continue their studies with a Masters or PhD can do so without the shadow of several thousand pounds worth of debt hanging over them.

6. Championing women in science and technology

The Lib Dems will tackle the gender gap at all levels of scientific study and research to help increase the supply of scientists. MP Evan Harris tabled an EDM supporting initiatives of the UK Resource Centre for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology to encourage employers and organisations to stimulate and develop initiatives to support and retain women.

Times are tough for geeks. Labour have failed to support a strong science and technology economy with only 1.8% of GDP invested in research and development, short of the UK's target of 2.5% (which itself lags behind the EU target of 3% GDP). Added to that, they ignore expert scientific advice on drugs and health policy and are pushing through policy which will limit the freedom of internet users in response to pressure from music industry lobby groups.

But are the Conservatives a hopeful alternative? Tory Shadow Minister for Innovation, Universities and Skills Adam Afriyie has joked that he would personally throw a party if the Conservatives managed to match Labour's current science investment levels. He also voted in favour of passing the Digital Economy Bill. The Tories have also shown their disregard for expert advice by appointing celebrity advisors on maths and science, such as Carol Vorderman who wouldn't even be qualified to teach maths under Conservative education proposals.

There are many special interest groups on the web who are lobbying all the parties to support investment in research and development and internet freedoms. We support their efforts but, having read the manifestos and heard the politicians speak, we think the Liberal Democrats have the strongest case for building a geek-friendly Britain and encouraging and retaining more young people, especially women, in careers in science and technology.

This May 6, Geek the Vote: Vote Lib Dem.

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