The Government welcomes the EU’s recent openness to discussions on UK association to EU Programmes following two years of delays. My Rt. Hon. Friend the Secretary of State travelled to Brussels ahead of publication of the Pioneer prospectus, for an introductory meeting with R&I Commissioner Mariya Gabriel to discuss research collaboration including the UK’s expectations around association to Horizon Europe. Association to Horizon Europe is our preference. But association would need to be on the basis of a good deal for the UK’s researchers, businesses and taxpayers. If the UK is not able associate on fair and appropriate terms, Pioneer will be implemented – our bold, ambitious alternative.