WITH the triggering of Article 50, talks on the UK鈥檚 exit from the European Union can finally begin.
While much is uncertain, it is clear Prime Minister Theresa May wants to control UK immigration from EU nations by leaving the single market, so ending a commitment to freedom of movement. This raises questions over how collaboration between British and EU scientists on EU-funded research will continue and how new border controls will affect the flow of overseas scientists to the UK.
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Having campaigned for Brexit, I am optimistic that a deal can be struck to continue joint research and that a new immigration system can keep talent arriving. Ensuring UK science thrives after Brexit is a government priority.
May鈥檚 comments give clues to a future research relationship: 鈥淭here may be鈥� European programmes in which we might want to participate. If so鈥� it is reasonable that we should make an appropriate contribution [to EU funds].鈥� And: 鈥淲e will also welcome agreement to continue to collaborate with our European partners on鈥� science, research and technology initiatives.鈥�
It appears May is open to an 鈥渁ssociation agreement鈥� to retain links with the 鈧�80 billion EU research fund, Horizon 2020. This would mean carrying on paying into the fund, but would allow UK scientists to apply for grants and work on EU research. In all, . Some have not signed up to freedom of movement.
There are, of course, non-EU projects, such as those run by CERN and the European Space Agency, where involvement will go on regardless. But I accept that many see benefit in continued involvement in the .
Given apparent UK interest in an association agreement, there seems no logical reason why our scientific relationship with the EU should change. Yes, the other EU states must agree to it, but would they exclude a nation with or that has produced than any other EU member?
As the UK takes back control of immigration, it will need to mitigate the impact on science and develop a strategy to maintain the inward flow of researchers and academics. Thankfully, there is evidence to suggest this does not require open EU borders. A 2012 study showed that states with strict controls, such as Australia, the US and Canada, than the UK, France and Germany.
It may require innovative solutions, such as a simplified fast-track visa for researchers or the removal of genuine overseas students from immigration statistics, but the UK can continue to recruit the brightest and best minds from across the globe.
This article appeared in print under the headline 鈥淭ime to talk鈥�