We have lift Prof
Delighted Hawking plans to travel into space after Branson offered him seat on Virgin Galactic voyage
PROFESSOR Stephen Hawking is planning to travel into space with Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic.
The physicist and cosmologist, 75, said he had not expected to have the chance to experience space but was delighted the Virgin boss had offered him a seat.
Discussing the meaning of happiness on Good Morning Britain, he said: “My three children have brought me great joy.
“And I can tell you what will make me happy, to travel in space. I thought no one would take me but Richard Branson has offered me a seat on Virgin Galactic and I said yes immediately.”
Hawking also shared his views on US president Donald Trump, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Brexit.
The scientist – who previously referred to Trump as a “demagogue” – fears he “may not be welcome” in the US.
He said: “The reaction to the election of Donald Trump represents a definite swing to a right-wing, more authoritarian approach.
“I have many friends and colleagues there. I would like to visit and talk to other scientists but I fear that I may not be welcome.”
The Labour supporter said it was unlikely the party could win an election with Corbyn as leader.
He said: “But I will continue to vote Labour – it’s the party that matters.” Hawking also warned against a hard Brexit as it would leave Britain “isolated and inwardlooking”.
He said: “Instead, we should retain as many links as possible with Europe and the rest of the world, particularly China.
“By remaining in the EU, we would have given ourselves more influence in the world.
“But leaving Europe threatens Britain’s status as a world leader in science and innovation.”