John,

Since the Industrial Revolution the UK has led the world in technological achievements and scientific discoveries, but after the calamitous decision to leave the EU, British innovators have struggled to keep pace, missing out funding, discovering new barriers to collaboration and putting Britain on the backfoot, in an area vital to future economic growth, UK soft power, and our national security.

This weekend, the Prime Minister will decide whether or not to sign a deal that would bring us back into the Horizon 2020 programme, allowing British researchers to benefit from $95 billion of investment and the opportunity to again collaborate with scientists and innovators across the continent. This agreement could catalyse the resurgence of our scientific community, but I need your help to ensure the Rishi's pen hits the paper:

Organisations like the Wellcome Trust, academics at leading universities and countless business leaders at our recent Trade Unlocked conference all agree that exiting Horizon 2020 has stifled British research and development, and rejoining at the earliest opportunity is a no-brainer.

Rishi, as we know, is a man of numbers. To drown out the voices of dissent from the dozens within his ranks who would sabotage any positive engagement with our European allies, we need as many of you as possible to show your support:

Rejoining Horizon was a key recommendation in the groundbreaking report from the UK Trade and Business Commission which thousands of you have already sent to your MPs. Seeing one of our flagship pledges being considered so swiftly is a testament to the collective power of our supporters. Your voice matters, and you're truly effecting change.

Write to Rishi today and let's give British science the boost it needs.

Best wishes,
Naomi Smith
CEO of Best for Britain