Cape compact

Closer scientific collaboration between South Africa and the United Kingdom was signalled this week with an agreement between the two countries. Science minister David Hunt, visiting South Africa, also announced that the two countries would jointly fund a Pounds 200,000 a year programme to help scientists to forge links. A collaborative research medal offering Pounds 10,000 for the best piece of joint South African/UK research was also announced. Mr Hunt donated British telescopes and astronomical equipment to the South African Observatory in Cape Province.