Fears for R&D as Brexit talks go to the wire

Sector issues Christmas plea for UK-EU deal to ensure future research collaborations

Policy experts fear R&D could get “caught in the crossfire” of last-minute Brexit talks as UK and European Union negotiators remain deadlocked ahead of the end of the transition period on 31 December.

Speaking on 13 December, prime minister Boris Johnson said he and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen were “still very far apart on some key things”, reportedly including fishing rights and ‘level playing field’ rules for businesses. Earlier in the week that date had been set as the ultimate deadline for a deal, but at the last minute both sides agreed to continue talks.