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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of proposed funding reductions at Jodrell Bank Observatory on scientific research, national security capabilities and regional economic growth.

I met with the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) Executive Chair, Professor Michele Dougherty, and have engaged with the UKRI Chief Executive, Sir Ian Chapman on several occasions to discuss the council’s strategic programmes and infrastructure investments. UK Research and Innovation and the STFC undertook a structured assessment of the impacts of different funding options across STFC's portfolio; considering factors including scientific excellence, long-term research impact, strategic importance to the UK, international leadership, value for money and the preservation of capabilities. To maintain the UK's long-term capability in radio astronomy, the Government continues to prioritise investment in the Square Kilometre Array Observatory, with £327 million committed between 2021 and 2030. Government investment in SKAO is bringing high-value jobs, international investment and long-term economic benefits to the Northwest and the UK.