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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what discussions he has had with UKRI on alternative funding arrangements for e-MERLIN and Jodrell Bank Observatory ahead of March 2028.

The Prime Minister has been clear that Jodrell Bank has a secure future. It will continue to host world-leading scientific research led by the University of Manchester, alongside serving as the headquarters of the Square Kilometre Array Observatory. Operational decisions relating to e-MERLIN sit with the University of Manchester, which has indicated that it is exploring a range of potential alternative funding streams beyond 2028. The Government is also working with partners to ensure Jodrell Bank continues to thrive for generations to come, including for heritage and educational purposes, ensuring tens of thousands of adults and children alike can be inspired by visits to the site.