Universities for North East England (UNEE) statement on the Global Talent Fund

Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor of Northumbria University and Chair of UNEE, said:

“We share the disappointment expressed by the Northern Mayors and appreciate their concern.

“We do not understand the rationale for overlooking the opportunity to bring global talent to the North, including North East England.   

“The five North East universities – Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and Teesside - have the capability to host and nurture global talent for the benefit of the UK.

“We collaborate on research that brings considerable benefits to the country and region - economically, socially and culturally. The impact of this decision is felt by us all.” 

Further information

1. On economic growth, in the 2021-22 academic year alone the five universities in the region contributed £9.7 billion to the UK economy, a higher output per institution than any other region in the UK.

2. Northern Accelerator, an existing collaboration between the universities, is already speeding up the commercialisation of research in the North East and has supported the launch of more than 50 spin out businesses.

3. Universities for North East England is a collaboration between the Universities of Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and Teesside, working alongside the Tees Valley and North East Combined Authorities. UNEE provides a unified, place-informed voice to make higher education accessible for study, business, innovation, and investment and offering regional insight to help inform national higher education policy. Further information on UNEE: Home - Universities for North East England (UNEE)

4. Read more about the Global Talent Fund.