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 the closure of Jodrell Bank Observatory on (a) researchers who use e-MERLIN and (b) science and engineering outreach to young people in the North West.

Jodrell Bank Observatory is not closing and remains an important UK science asset. 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. The Government is 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.