The UK is rejoining the European Union’s scientific research programme Horizon as Rishi Sunak said he had struck the “right deal for British taxpayers”. 

Downing Street announced the move early this morning, with the Prime Minister having agreed a discounted membership fee as part of the “bespoke” arrangements. 

The agreement will see Britain become an associate member of Horizon Europe as well as Copernicus which is the European Earth Observation programme. 

No10 said Mr Sunak had “secured improved financial terms of association that are right for the UK and protect the taxpayer”. 

The UK initially agreed a £15 billion membership fee to join Horizon as part of the post-Brexit trade deal but tensions surrounding the Northern Ireland Protocol led to a refusal by the European Commission to finalise the terms.

A deal has now been done after months of wrangling. Mr Sunak said: “With a wealth of expertise and experience to bring to the global stage, we have delivered a deal that enables UK scientists to confidently take part in the world’s largest research collaboration programme – Horizon Europe.

“We have worked with our EU partners to make sure that this is right deal for the UK, unlocking unparalleled research opportunities, and also the right deal for British taxpayers.”

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