7th September, 2023
Britain will rejoin the European Union’s 95.5 billion euro ($103 billion) Horizon science research initiative.
The government announced the signing of a “bespoke” new deal with the EU, allowing British researchers to seek grants and participate in Horizon projects.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced, saying, ‘We have worked with our EU partners to make sure that this is the right deal for the UK, unlocking unparalleled research opportunities. And we also have the right deal for British taxpayers.’
Britain remained in the post-Brexit trade pact negotiated with Brussels, but was barred from participating in a tit-for-tat reprisal over Northern Ireland arrangements.
Scientists applauded the decision, which came amid fears that UK researchers were missing out on collaboration with peers in the EU.
Nicola Perrin, CEO of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC), said, ‘Finally, the long-awaited announcement has arrived: the UK will rejoin Horizon Europe.
‘Continuous government commitment to cross-border research collaboration is critical to providing benefits to patients.
“The news will come as a big relief to charities and the researchers they support.”
EU member states contributed funds, which were then allocated to individuals or organisations on merit to explore subjects such as climate change, medical advances, and artificial intelligence.
The British government said the deal includes a “clawback” mechanism, which means the UK will be compensated if British scientists receive significantly less money than it puts into the programme.
dpa/NAN