EUROPEAN SPALLATION SOURCE IN YORKSHIRE

Early day motion 193, tabled 21 November 2006 by John Grogan (Labour). Signed by 31 members.

That this House welcomes proposals to locate the European Spallation Source (ESS) at Burn near Selby and recognises that the ESS is an integral part of the recently announced Leeds City Region Development Programme, Yorkshire Forward's economic strategy and also the ambitions of the White Rose Consortium; notes with enthusiasm that the ESS would provide this country with the biggest and most powerful neutron-scattering facility in the world and that Yorkshire is a centre of world class science ideally placed to host such a facility; further notes that the ESS would generate 2,000-3,000 construction jobs, with around 1,000 scientists, technicians, engineers and support staff when operational and would also accommodate around 5,000 visiting scientists per year, as well as create benefits for the tourism and hospitality industries in the City Region; recognises that if located at Burn the ESS would make a significant contribution towards bridging the economic gap between north and south; consequently expresses concern at Lord Sainsbury's parting declaration as Science Minister that no major science facility should be built outside existing sites at Oxford and Daresbury; believes that such a policy is shortsighted and by overlooking the potential offered by projects such as the ESS at Burn would impinge upon future scientific research and development in this country; and is optimistic that Leeds City Region will be unwavering in its determination to secure the ESS for the region and the country and is encouraged that the incoming Minister is willing to discuss the project with key stakeholders.

Signatures by party: Labour 25, Conservative 3, Liberal Democrat 3.