Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what assessment she has made of the UK's position globally in respect of research into beta cell preservation, regeneration and replacement therapies for type 1 diabetes.

Through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), including UKRI’s Medical Research Council (MRC), the Government supports a broad portfolio of research relevant to Type 1 diabetes. This includes work on pancreatic biology, immunology, and cell replacement approaches, alongside wider research into the underlying mechanisms of the disease. Funding is awarded through open, competitive processes based on scientific excellence, ensuring the UK remains well placed to contribute to advances in areas such as beta cell therapies.

The Department of Health and Social Care also funds research through the National Institute for Health and Care Research, which supports high-quality research to improve the diagnosis, treatment and management of Type 1 diabetes.