The UK is set to return to the European Union’s science research programme, Horizon Europe, on New Year’s Day, 2024, after leaving the funding programmes for research and innovation in 2021 as part of Brexit. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen agreed on the deal in September, following the Windsor Framework agreement earlier this year.
The final step towards rejoining was completed on Monday, December 4 by the EU-UK Specialised Committee on Participation in the Union Programmes.
The agreement means that the UK will have closer ties with the EU and allow for research communities to work together.
The UK is set to contribute €2.43billion (£2.08billion) per year to the EU budget for participation in the scheme. In addition to roughly €154million (£132million) for participation in Copernicus, the Earth observation part of the EU’s space programme.
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Speaking about the agreement to reporters in Brussels, UK Science Minister Michelle Donelan described the new agreement as “a bespoke deal”.
She said: “Being part of Horizon and Copernicus is a colossal win for the UK’s science, research and business communities, as well as for economic growth and job creation – all part of the long-term decisions the UK government is taking to secure a brighter future.
“The UK led a quarter of the work we were involved in through Horizon’s predecessor, so we know from recent history the importance of the UK’s skills and expertise in making this programme work.” She added it was “vital that we seize this moment”.
The European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, lliana Ivanova, said: “I’m happy to welcome the UK back to the Horizon family. This is a real milestone, a clear win-win for both sides and for global scientific progress.
“Together, we can push further and faster. I have made association of non-EU countries to Horizon Europe my personal priority, and we are delivering.”
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