Will FEC inevitably reduce UK universities ability to secure EU Framework (FP) funding?
A – No. The implementation of FEC and associated increases in funding mentioned above should place UK HEIs in a stronger financial position to secure external project funding from EU FP and other sources. The UK Government will be negotiating in the coming year to increase the percentage of FEC covered under the new FP7. Where external project sponsors, including at present EU FP, pay less than 100% of FEC, HEIs will continue to be able to bid for and accept such funding, having regard to the sustainability requirement mentioned above and given their stronger financial platforms from increased UK public funding.
