Jodrell Bank Observatory: Funding
Debate between Earl Russell and Baroness Ramsey of Wall Heath
Baroness Ramsey of Wall Heath (Lab)
UKRI and the STFC made a strategic decision to focus resources on the next generation of radio astronomy capability. That decision was taken as part of an evidence-informed process and prioritisation exercise across our research portfolio.
Earl Russell (LD)
My Lords, on these Benches we too welcome the statement made in the other place by the Prime Minister. However, the details of how that support will be provided are not clear at this time, and the industry is concerned. Physics-powered business generated over £303 billion in GVA in 2023 and supports 2.6 million jobs, with over half those jobs outside the south-east. Does the Minister agree that protecting facilities such as this is not simply a science policy question but essential to UK economic and regional growth? What assessment has been made of the wider economic contribution?