The deal on the #NorthernIrelandProtocol is to be welcomed.
I asked the Prime Minister if this meant he would keep his commitment to spend the EU Horizon association money on #science.
He did not answer my question. pic.twitter.com/sLcqzppS5a
— Chi Onwurah ???? (@ChiOnwurah) February 28, 2023
The issues with the Northern Ireland protocol have damaged our communities, our economy and our democracy, so of course I welcome the agreement and look forward to a better working relationship with the European Union, including on science. When the Northern Ireland protocol delays meant that we could not associate with the Horizon programme, the Government committed that every penny meant for science would be spent on science. Some £2.5 billion was set aside for association with Horizon and £900 million was spent on guarantees, but, last week, £1.5 billion was quietly taken out of the budget and back to the Treasury. Now that the Prime Minister has the deal, will he commit to deliver his promises on science?
HANSARD: