Sir, With the election of a Conservative government, we are now on course for a referendum on EU membership. This referendum will need debate enriched by perspectives from all concerned, including the science community.
It is not sufficiently known to the public that the EU is a boon to UK science and innovation. Freedom of movement for talent and ambitious EU science funding programmes, which support vital complex international collaborations, put the UK in a world-leading position. This, in turn, affects education, skilled jobs, small innovative businesses and our economic future.
The scientific community works intimately with the EU and the experience is a very positive one. Therefore, we wish to make known our support for the EU, its scientific direction, and our continued membership.