Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, whether funding for the e-MERLIN programme is being withdrawn.

The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) funding for the e‑MERLIN radio telescope network remains in place until 31 March 2028. STFC does not intend to continue operational funding for e‑MERLIN beyond that date. This decision follows an evidence-based prioritisation exercise undertaken by STFC and forms part of a wider package of measures designed to return STFC to a sustainable financial position while protecting core scientific capability, major facilities and international partnerships.