For some time, the European Union has had a firm commitment to medical research, and with some of the finest research scientists in the world, the United Kingdom was always going to benefit.

The EU has given a grant of £8m to Sheffield University to advance knowledge of stem cells and their potential.

As you may know, stem cells, when taken from an embryo, can be directed to grow into any part of the body, from bones to the brain. This technique could, in theory, be developed in to a new form of regenerative medicine which could cure a wide variety of diseases and disabilities.

I understand that this research is seen as controversial, and that is exactly why we need the tight regulations and ethical control placed upon it, but with this technology lives really can be saved and improved beyond measure – and Yorkshire scientists will be at the very heart of it.