Brazil helps boost biofuel

The UK and Brazilian Governments have agreed to work together to assess the potential for collaborating with southern Africa to sustainably expand its bio-ethanol industry as well as forging stronger links on science, technology and innovation.

The UK's Chief Scientific Adviser Sir David King and Brazilian Science and Technology Minister Sergio Rezende signed a Joint Action Plan on Science, Technology and Innovation, which will encourage greater collaboration between the two countries in areas of common interest, including climate change, agriculture and health.

The signing ceremony took place at Imperial House during the State visit to Britain by Brazil's President Lula.

"Science and technology are not only key to helping us retain our market edge in an increasingly competitive and globalised environment but will also play a major part in helping us find solutions to social, environmental and economic problems," Sir David said. "This plan of action is an excellent opportunity for the UK and Brazil to make real gains on all fronts."