Bolton West MP Chris Green has today questioned both Jo Johnson MP, Minister of State for Universities, Science, Research and Innovation and Robin Walker MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Exiting the European Union, as part of the Science and Technology Select Committee’s inquiry.
The Committee’s inquiry “Leaving the EU—Implications and opportunities for Science and Research” today took evidence from Ministers on their science and research priorities, with Members asking what the UK Government should be negotiating in our new relationship with the EU; the opportunities that the UK’s exit presents for research collaboration and market access with non-EU countries; and importantly what other measures the Government should undertake to keep UK science and research with sufficient funding, after an EU exit.
Chris commented: “Britain is the world’s leading scientific country, but we will only thrive outside of the EU if we grasp the opportunities available and play to our strengths. We have a competitive advantage in science and technology, but we have been held back by some policies stemming from Brussels. As an engineer, I want to make sure that our world-leading universities and research community are protected and get a good deal in any Brexit negotiations.”
“In addition to this, I want to make sure that the voices of my constituents are represented and that we get the best possible deal for the British people. Brexit is a chance for us to become an outward-looking country, forging new partnerships and strengthening old ones around the world.”