Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, if he will take steps to encourage universities in the UK to enter into partnerships and twinning arrangements with the British University in Egypt.

I am keen that UK universities broaden their engagement with their Egyptian counterparts in recognition of the country's growing research strengths. The newly created UK – Egypt Newton – Mosharafa Fund presents a real opportunity to take UK – Egypt institutional engagement to another level, by investing £20 million over five years in a bilateral partnership focussed on science, research, innovation and education.

The British University Egypt will be eligible to apply for calls once the fund is launched.