Why knowledge of science is important for a government minister?

If you think of science as a process rather than a series of facts, the answer becomes "it is useful to everyone almost every day of their lives".

People, especially business people, are often faced with a situation they have never dealt with before. One method of dealing with it would be to guess at the solution. A better method would be to apply the scientific method to develop a proper response.

Also, almost every business is impacted by changes in science and technology. In fact, I'm having a difficult time thinking of one that isn't impacted. A good business man/woman will have the basic knowledge of science to see when something is a good opportunity or a con-job.