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ARM: Foreign Acquisition
21 September 2020
Lead MP
Daniel Zeichner
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
EconomyTaxationEmploymentForeign AffairsScience & TechnologyBusiness & Trade
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Daniel Zeichner raised concerns about arm: foreign acquisition in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
This debate addresses the future of ARM, a UK-based tech company being sold to Nvidia. Established in Cambridge in 1990, ARM designs and licenses chips used globally, particularly in smartphones, sensors, smart devices, and cloud computing technologies. With around 2,700 employees across the country, including many highly skilled jobs, the sale raises concerns about job security, headquarters location, and the impact on UK technological independence. The MP urges the government to scrutinise the deal carefully and impose strict legal conditions to ensure ARM’s success model is maintained and its technology remains out of foreign policy influence.
Andrew Griffith
Con
unknown constituency
Welcomes the sale as a positive move, emphasising that Nvidia will maintain ARM's presence in Cambridge and supports UK business conditions.
Government Response
EconomyTaxationEmploymentForeign AffairsScience & TechnologyBusiness & Trade
Government Response
The Minister thanked Daniel Zeichner for raising this important issue. She explained the Government’s commitment to protecting a vibrant tech sector in the UK and its role in innovation, especially microprocessor design. The Enterprise Act 2002 allows government intervention on four public interest grounds: financial stability, national security, media plurality, and public health emergencies. Ministers are reviewing the full impact of ARM's sale by Nvidia, considering legal steps under the Act without prejudice to any future decision-making process. She confirmed that discussions with companies have been ongoing but declined to discuss commercial aspects. The Minister emphasised UK leadership in tech innovation, investment in science and technology, and promotion of the UK as a business-friendly environment for tech firms. She assured the MP she will keep him informed about developments related to ARM's future.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.