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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the proposed withdrawal of STFC operational funding for the e-MERLIN radio telescope array on the UK's national radio astronomy capability.

UK Research and Innovation assessed the implications of future investments in radio astronomy as part of an evidence-based prioritisation exercise, which led to the decision not to continue STFC funding for e-MERLIN beyond March 2028. Options were assessed against scientific excellence, long-term research impact, strategic importance to the UK and international leadership. 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. Jodrell Bank will continue to host the international SKAO headquarters helping to sustain the UK’s internationally leading role in radio astronomy research and collaboration.