Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

MOD purchase of semiconductor facility in Newton Aycliffe

07 October 2024 · Ministry of Defence

Proposed by John Healey Lab Rawmarsh and Conisbrough

Business & TradeDefenceEmployment

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

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At a glance

Key points

  • The Ministry of Defence acquired a semiconductor factory in Newton Aycliffe to support UK defence requirements.
  • The Government plans to invest in Octric Semiconductors UK, securing up to 100 skilled jobs.
  • Investment aims to expand export opportunities and ensure the facility can produce advanced semiconductors for military platforms.

Issue summary

The Ministry of Defence acquired a semiconductor factory in Newton Aycliffe to support UK defence needs.

Action requested

The Government intends to invest in Octric Semiconductors UK over the coming years, securing up to 100 skilled jobs and expanding export opportunities while ensuring the facility's capability to produce advanced semiconductors for military platforms.

Key facts

  • The Ministry of Defence acquired a semiconductor factory in Newton Aycliffe.
  • Octric Semiconductors UK is the only secure facility in the UK with skills to manufacture gallium arsenide semiconductors.
  • Up to 100 skilled jobs are secured in the North East of England.
  • The Government recognises the strategic importance of semiconductors for national security and growth missions.
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