The EU referendum has major implications for all UK universities and particularly for those engaged in European research like EPRC. As a research institute specialising in EU policy research, our aim is to ensure that EPRC continues to undertake comparative research, policy advice and knowledge exchange on regional policy in Europe, including on EU Cohesion policy, EU Competition policy and related policies. In particular, we want to maintain the good working relationships built up over many years with our partners throughout Europe in the EU institutions, Member State authorities at national and regional levels, and academic departments and research institutes.
We have developed contingency plans for this eventuality, and we are currently exploring specific options to ensure that the impact on our European work is minimised. The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde greatly values the research and knowledge exchange that EPRC does, and he is giving us full legal and financial support to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in our work and relationships.
We will be refining options over the summer. In the meantime, our research work will continue unaffected.
We are greatly heartened by the many messages of support from our partners in other EU countries. Thank you for your past and future support!