Some physicists have conjectured that the two possible nuclear spins of P-31 make it ideal for use as the basis for solid-state quantum computing.

FORBES: Scientists Create A One-Atom Transistor

Former defence secretary Conservative Liam Fox, who is one of the Tory MPs who has been briefed on the speech, said he believed the "ideal solution" would be for the UK to remain within the EU but on a fundamentally different basis, focused on trade.

BBC: 'Strong case' for EU referendum, says Hague