Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs on the potential merits of using scientific research collaborations in Africa as development aid.

The Department is working across HMG to develop, strengthen and amplify UK-Africa science and tech partnerships across the continent, focusing our efforts where the UK has strong existing and historical relationships; where the country is a leader in science, tech and data across the continent; and where partnerships could have broader impacts for development and diplomatic impact across the region.