Ian Roome
Main Page: Ian Roome (Liberal Democrat - North Devon)(1 day, 14 hours ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text Watch Debate
Mr Dhesi
The existing partnership with Japan and Italy is a strong one, but we must recognise that further partners could benefit the programme. Our report warns that including any additional partners will require careful consideration, and it must not jeopardise the 2035 target date, which is paramount.
Ian Roome (North Devon) (LD)
Does the hon. Gentleman agree that, with our Italian and Japanese partners committing to multi-year funding plans for GCAP to give confidence to industry, the UK should show a similar commitment?
Mr Dhesi
I thank the hon. Member for his excellent question and for his hard work on the Committee—long may it continue. I wholeheartedly agree, and I hope that Ministers are listening intently, because multi-year funding settlements can offer us that extra stability to provide a lot more in a shorter space of time.