After months of negotiations, Britain is to return to the European Union’s €95.5 billion ($103 billion) Horizon science research programme.

The government said a “bespoke” new agreement was signed off with the EU, with British researchers able to apply for grants and take part in Horizon projects.

Horizon is a collaboration involving Europe’s leading research institutes and technology companies.

“We have worked with our EU partners to ensure this is the right deal for the UK, unlocking unparalleled research opportunities. And we also have the right deal for British taxpayers,” said Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Britain continued to participate under the post-Brexit trade deal brokered with Brussels but was frozen out in a tit-for-tat retaliation in a dispute over Northern Ireland arrangements.

Scientists welcomed the move amid warnings that UK researchers have been missing out on collaboration with colleagues in the EU, Nicola Perrin, chief executive of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC), said. “Finally, the news we’ve been waiting for the UK is rejoining Horizon Europe. Ongoing government commitment to cross-border collaboration in research is crucial to deliver benefits to patients. The announcement will be a huge relief to charities and the researchers they fund.”

EU member states contributed funds, which were then allocated to individuals or organisations on merit to explore subjects such as climate change, medical advances and artificial intelligence.

The British government said the deal includes a “clawback” mechanism, which means the UK will be compensated if British scientists receive significantly less money than it puts into the programme.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who signed off on the deal with Mr Sunak in a call on Wednesday, said.

“The EU and UK are key strategic partners and allies and today’s agreement proves that point,” she added. “We will continue to be at the forefront of global science and research.”

(dpa/NAN)