A survey for the European Commission has found that young Britons are among the least likely in Europe to consider studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

When asked how they felt about studying science-based subjects, 86% of young Britons said they would probably or definitely not consider natural sciences, while 76% would consider neither engineering nor mathematics.

The results follow the trend in other Western European countries, where a minority said they would consider studying sciences.

The findings contradict Higher Education Funding Council claims that there has been a turnaround in the number of students taking up science, maths and language subjects at A-level and university last month.

Recent research from the Science Council said not enough young people knew about the career advantages that come with taking science subjects.

To read the Young People and Science Report by the European Commission click here

For coverage in the Guardian click here