Huawei has acquired photonics research laboratory the Centre for Integrated Photonics (CIP) from the East of England Development Agency (EEDA), it has emerged.

The move should boost Huawei's research and development capabilities, and is said to reiterate the company's commitment to maintaining a presence in the UK.

CIP's Ipswich-based research and development workforce will be retained and will become a significant cog in Huawei's UK-based research activities.

CIP is well-known for carrying out research in fibre optic transmission technology. As a result, Huawei said it will continue to invest in research in this field to ensure that CIP remains a leading innovator.

Commenting on the deal between the two parties, Professor Will Pope, EEDA chairman, said: "This is a tremendous investment success story for EEDA, which acquired CIP in 2003 from its then American owners to save it from closure."