February 2017 Gerry Webber University Secretary BREXIT BRIEFING February 2017 Gerry Webber University Secretary

On 23 June 2016, the UK voted to leave What we know “Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union?” On 23 June 2016, the UK voted to leave Most of the rest is still unknown…

What does it mean? Brexit means Brexit PM’s speech 17 January 2017 Article 50 +2 years to agree divorce (2019?)

PM’s speech 17 January Leaving the single market and the ECJ Probably leaving the customs union too Tighter control of immigration Some chinks of light, perhaps…

Good news for higher education? Some limited assurances already given on student fees and EU research We are “..leaving the EU, not leaving Europe” “We want to guarantee the rights of EU citizens who are already living in Britain…”

More good news for HE? “..there may be some specific European programmes in which we might want to participate.” The UK “will continue to attract the brightest and the best to work or study in Britain..” We would “..welcome agreement to continue to collaborate… on major science, research and technology initiatives.”

Sector concerns - UUK "There are currently nearly half a million international students at UK universities, with over 125,000 [c5%] of them from EU countries. 16% of academic staff at UK universities are from EU countries, while 12% are from non-EU countries. Brexit negotiations must ensure that the UK is still open to EU and international students and that we can continue to access valuable and collaborative European research networks. It was encouraging to hear that the prime minister would like to see the UK continue to play a role in certain EU programmes. Brexit poses many challenges, but with the right Government support, universities can play a central role in the UK's economic success and global influence outside the EU. This will, however, require reforms to our current immigration system to ensure that the most talented international students, researchers and university staff can come to the UK and are welcomed, regardless of their nationality." Have asked George to check info…. 7

What does it mean for us? Staff Students Research Brexit FAQs Over 10% of our staff are from the EU, unevenly distributed Existing staff unlikely to be affected, but fewer new starts? Students Around 10% of UGs and 20% of PGs are from the EU Also distributed unevenly, and not always easy to replace Research Almost 40% of external research funding is from the EU Alternative sources are already highly competitive Brexit FAQs For students: Info accessible via Home Page For staff: Europe page under Principal’s Office. Email discussion@napier.ac.uk with any questions

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