Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Horizon Europe

Wednesday 3 May 2023 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • UK aims to achieve association with Horizon Europe
  • Delays in association due to EU membership issues
  • Government seeks fair terms for UK taxpayers and researchers

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Diana R. Johnson Lab Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham
Brexit Science & Technology
Context

Horizon Europe is the world's largest science funding and collaboration programme, crucial for UK researchers.

Question

What recent progress has been made on negotiating the UK's association to Horizon Europe? The University of Hull in my constituency knows how important Horizon grants are for research. The Conservative party promised to secure this association. How can universities plan if this is not sorted?

Answer from Chloe Smith

We aim to achieve association, which reflects why we are working hard on it. Senior scientists acknowledge our approach but note delays due to EU membership issues. The sector can collaborate with government under fair terms.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide a clear timeline or specific details about future planning for universities and scientists.

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Q2 Diana R. Johnson Lab Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham
Education Brexit Business & Trade
Context

The University of Hull in my constituency understands the importance of securing UK's involvement in Horizon Europe for research funding.

Question

Given that universities need clarity to plan, how can they proceed without a confirmed association to Horizon Europe?

Answer from Chloe Smith

We aim for successful association but must secure fair terms. Senior scientists understand our approach and agree it is appropriate that we have an alternative plan, allowing collaboration with the Government.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not specify concrete steps or timeline for universities to plan under uncertain conditions.

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Q3 Neil Hudson Con Epping Forest
Foreign Affairs Science & Technology
Context

UK has top scientists and institutions, requiring collaboration for best research outcomes.

Question

Welcoming the Secretary of State, I ask about rejoining Horizon Europe. Our UK scientists wish to collaborate globally. Will the Government commit to joining such programmes?

Answer from Chloe Smith

Association is our preference but must be on fair terms for UK taxpayers, researchers. We see a thread from basic science through innovation that changes lives, supports growth, and solves challenges.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide a clear reaffirmation or timeline regarding joining Horizon Europe.

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