Oral Answers to Questions

Chris Elmore Excerpts

Thursday 1st December 2016 Commons Chamber

[Gavin Newlands (Paisley and Renfrewshire North) (SNP)]

11. What representations he has received from universities on priorities for his negotiations on the UK leaving the EU.

[Chris Elmore (Ogmore) (Lab/Co-op)]

12. What plans he has to consult representatives of the higher education sector as part of his Department's preparations for the UK exiting the EU.

[Jeff Smith (Manchester, Withington) (Lab)]

18. What plans he has to consult representatives of the higher education sector as part of his Department's preparations for the UK exiting the EU.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Walker]

We value highly the contribution of EU and international researchers and academic staff. We remain fully open to scientists and researchers from across the EU, and we will always welcome those with the skills, drive and expertise to make our nation better still. Regarding those who are already in the UK, we have been clear that there has been no change to the rights and status of EU nationals in the UK as a result of the referendum.

[Chris Elmore]

In 2014-15, there were 43,000 EU staff in the UK higher education sector. Those people are making decisions now about their future. When will the Government give them certainty, and what is in the Government’s plan for Brexit to ensure that our universities can benefit from the contribution of those staff members once we have left the EU?

[Mr Walker]

I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer that I have just given. I think we have been very clear that we want to continue to attract the top talent and that we want the UK to remain a leader in research, which means attracting people from the EU and from around the wider world.