British scientists face a ‘huge hit’ if the US cuts climate change research

Academics fear Donald Trump's environmental policy may put an end to key data from US agencies

UK scientists are warning they may be unable to carry out crucial research on climate change if Donald Trump cuts climate science funding in the US.

Trump tweeted in 2014 that research on global warming is "very expensive bullshit" that "has to stop". Scientists are braced to find out whether his administration will put these words into practice. The early signs are not good. Last month Scott Pruitt, one of the US Environmental Protection Agency's fiercest critics, was named as its new head. There are rumours that the budget of its office for research could be cut by more than 40% as part of extensive overall cuts.