After months of tense negotiations, the UK and the EU have reached a deal regarding the former's membership of the bloc’s research programmes. 

Under the agreement, the UK will become an associate member of the €95bn (£81bn) Horizon Europe programme, meaning that scientists can start applying for grants under the scheme with immediate effect. The long-delayed decision has been celebrated across scientific and business communities as a step forward for the UK’s research sector. 

“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,” said Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister. 

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

The UK’s associate membership...