House of Commons · Bill Debate

The Space Industry Act 2018 Amendment Bill - Clause 1(a) and (b)

17 May 2024 · 8 other contributors

Opened by Jonathan Lord Con Wokingham

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Jonathan Lord raised concerns about the space industry act 2018 amendment bill - clause 1(a) and (b) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

Clause 1(a) of the Space Industry Act 2018 Amendment Bill changes section 12(2) from a discretionary power to a mandatory requirement.
The amendment aims to ensure legal certainty for operators and investors by specifying limits on an operator's liability to indemnify the Government and other named bodies against claims arising from damage or loss caused by space activities.
Clause 1(a) aligns UK standards with those of France and the United States, fostering growth in the UK's space sector.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Jonathan Lord Con Wokingham

I move, That the Bill be now read the Third time. Clause 1(a) is crucial for ensuring that commercial space activities in the UK are undertaken safely, securely, and in accordance with international obligations. The amendment changes section 12(2) of the Space Industry Act 2018 from a discretionary power to a mandatory requirement, specifying limits on an operator’s liability to indemnify Government and other named bodies against claims arising from damage or loss caused by space activities. This provides legal certainty for operators and investors, aligning UK standards with those of France and the United States, thereby fostering growth in the sector which is currently worth £17.5 billion a year.

Other contributors (8)

Jonathan Lord Con Wokingham

Clause 1(a) and (b) will provide regulatory certainty to the UK space industry by mandating limits on operator liability, fostering a competitive environment and encouraging investment. This aligns with international standards and addresses critical uncertainties surrounding liability and indemnity.
Karen Bradley Con Staffordshire Moorlands

[INTERVENTION] Congratulates the Bill’s proponent on providing a competitive advantage for the UK space industry, highlighting its importance in setting legal certainty.
Nickie Aiken

[INTERVENTION] Supports the Bill's encouragement of women and girls to consider careers in the space industry as it expands and offers new opportunities.
Matt Rodda Lab Reading Central

Supports the amendment as it ensures safety, compliance, and limits taxpayer liability. Welcomes legal certainty on liability limits for investors and economic growth in the UK space sector, which employs over 48,000 people. Advocates for stability and long-term investment from government to support industry growth.
Roger Gale Con Herne Bay and Sandwich

Welcomed the hon. Member for South West Hertfordshire's first speech at the Dispatch Box, confirming cross-party support for the Bill. Emphasises the importance of supporting the UK’s space sector through stable long-term investment and clear government strategy.
Gagan Mohindra Con South West Hertfordshire

Confirms support for the Bill, highlighting its importance in supporting the UK's ambition to be a leading provider of commercial small satellite launch by 2030. Acknowledges the £17.5 billion contribution and over 48,000 jobs created by the space sector. Supports legislative certainty on operator liabilities as requested by industry.
Roger Gale Con Herne Bay and Sandwich

Recalled his childhood interest in space travel, acknowledged the hon. Gentleman's earlier remarks about being an astronaut during their youth. Noted the progress made since Yuri Gagarin’s first flight and congratulated the MP on the successful passage of the Space Industry Bill.
Jonathan Lord

Thanked all Members for their attendance, noted a reduction in space-related puns compared to previous debates. Highlighted cross-party support and praised the shadow Minister’s remarks on Surrey's space cluster, mentioning Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd as an example. Emphasised the importance of this measure for future growth of UK’s space industry.