Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps he is taking to help ensure that funding for cancer research is maintained after the transition period.

The Government is committed to ensuring the United Kingdom becomes a global science superpower and continues to collaborate with Europe on scientific research, including cancer research.

The Prime Minister has made clear that the UK is ready to consider a relationship in line with non-European Union Member State participation in Horizon Europe, provided this represents value for money and is in the UK’s interest. Any agreements relating to Union programmes should contain fair terms for UK participation. This should include fair treatment of participants, a fair and appropriate financial contribution, provisions allowing for sound financial management by both parties, and appropriate governance and consultation.

As a responsible Government, we are also developing alternative schemes to support international research and innovation collaboration. This includes options to address immediate needs and work through to any future funding scenario.