Britain has rejoined the European Union’s £85 billion Horizon science research programme under a new bespoke deal.
The development follows a call between Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen yesterday.
Mr Sunak secured improved financial terms in what he described as the “right deal for British taxpayers”.
The PM said: said: “Innovation has long been the foundation for prosperity in the UK, from the breakthroughs improving healthcare to the technological advances growing our economy.
“With a wealth of expertise and experience to bring to the global stage, we have delivered a deal that enables UK scientists to confidently take part in the world’s largest research collaboration programme – Horizon Europe.
“We have worked with our EU partners to make sure that this is right deal for the UK, unlocking unparalleled research opportunities, and also the right deal for British taxpayers.”
The UK’s associate membership of Horizon was agreed in principle as part of the Brexit Trade and Co-operation Agreement.
But Britain was frozen out for two years during a bitter Brexit row over Northern Ireland.
Horizon is a collaboration involving Europe’s leading research institutes and technology companies.
EU member states contribute funds, which are then allocated to individuals or organisations on merit to explore subjects such as climate change, medical advances and artificial intelligence.
