PRO-independence parties yesterday urged the UK Government to ensure Scottish universities do not miss out on millions of pounds in funding because of Brexit.
Figures from the House of Commons Library show Scottish institutions had received just under £142 million in Horizon 2020 funding for 307 projects by May.
This includes £55m for Edinburgh University under the EU’s biggest research and innovation programme, while Glasgow University also benefited from £30m.
The UK Government has committed to underwriting funding for Horizon 2020 projects approved before the UK officially leaves the European Union.
But yesterday SNP MSP Jenny Gilruth urged Westminster to commit to make up any losses set to befall institutions as a result of Brexit.
She said: “These new figures show just how vital EU funding is to our universities, going some way to helping our higher education sector maintain its reputation as a leader in research and innovation.
“The lack of certainty provided by the Tories puts this reputation on the line, risking the cream of our research talent simply walking away. So far, the UK Government has only confirmed that it will underwrite funding received through Horizon 2020 for projects confirmed before the UK leaves the EU – meaning that our universities could lose out on millions of pounds in funding after Brexit.
“This level of uncertainty simply isn’t good enough.
“The fact is that Scotland chose to be part of Europe and to maintain our access to funding sources like Horizon 2020. The UK Government must now give a commitment to ensure that Scotland’s universities do not lose out on vital support.”
Ross Greer, of the Greens, said: “Earlier this month, I raised the threat of Scotland’s universities losing over £100m of funding as a result of Brexit – as I said then, the Scottish and Westminster governments must find a way to guarantee that Scotland’s world-class universities will continue to receive the funding they deserve, and not lose out as a result of a decision which Scotland voted overwhelmingly against.
“We cannot allow our links to the European research community as well as the amazing achievements and jobs that come with it to be undermined by the weak commitments of Tory ministers at Westminster.”
Meanwhile, Labour education spokesman Iain Gray said: “
Ruth Davidson should encourage her Tory colleagues to tell us how they are going to secure the future of our higher education institutions, and quickly.”
A spokesman for the department for business, energy and industrial strategy pointed to comments made by Chief Secretary to the Treasury David Gauke earlier this month.
Gauke said: “UK businesses and universities should continue to bid for competitive EU funds while we remain a member of the EU and we will work with the commission to ensure payment when funds are awarded.
“The Treasury will underwrite the payment of such awards, even when specific projects continue beyond the UK’s departure from the EU.
“Naturally, we will need to address the future of all programmes that are currently EU-funded, once we have left the EU.
“Over the coming months, we will consult with stakeholders to review all EU funding schemes in the round, to ensure that any ongoing funding commitments best-serve the UK’s national interest, while ensuring appropriate investor certainty.”
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