House of Commons · Westminster Hall
24 April 2024 · 8 other contributors · 8,107 words
Opened by Mark Garnier Con Wyre Forest
Responding minister: Andrew Griffith
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Mark Garnier raised concerns about space industry in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The Minister should provide long-term funding for the space industry to deliver priorities outlined in the national space strategy, stimulate private investment through grant funding, and support the development of a British space bank. The Government must also ensure that the UK remains competitive by supporting innovative financial mechanisms such as space protection bonds.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The UK space industry is thriving but could do more. The sector has a turnover of £17.5 billion per annum and employs nearly 50,000 people, including 2,300 apprentices. The Government's investment in the space sector is low compared to other countries. The UK needs to maintain its lead in areas like CubeSat manufacturing and space-based solar power.
The strategic significance of the space industry for the UK is acknowledged, with specific local opportunities in Shetland due to its unique geographic location. The SaxaVord spaceport received a £10 million commitment from the Government and has partnerships with academic institutions. Community initiatives focus on STEM education and inter-island connectivity improvements.
Scotland plays a key role in the space sector, with companies like Clyde Space and Alba Orbital in Glasgow. The country aims to capture a £4 billion market share by 2030 and increase employment to 20,000 jobs but needs proper government support. Monaghan questions the Government about job creation from OneWeb's £400 million stake and asks for steps to ensure second-generation satellites are built in the UK.
Emphasised the importance of the space industry for economic growth, security, and innovation. Highlighted the need for responsive regulation to support advancements such as in-orbit manufacturing and space-based renewables. Called for a timeframe from the Minister on responding to reports by the Regulatory Horizons Council.
Thanks the hon. Member for initiating the debate and questions whether enough is being done to foster an ecosystem that supports growth and cooperation between universities and private sectors in places like Edinburgh. I was privileged to visit the SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland last month and noted that the work reflects the ingenuity and effort developed during the oil and gas industry era, which has now been applied to the space industry. This work has already gained recognition globally.
Declares interest as UK space adviser and asks if the Government are putting more money into the space sector than previous Governments.
Noted ongoing work at the Sutherland spaceport and investment in Orbex. Highlighted the importance of developing homegrown skills for the industry.
Commends the debate and expresses interest in ensuring that Northern Ireland benefits from further investment, highlighting engineering as a strong subsector with high skill levels.
Cornwall has seen the revival of Goonhilly satellite tracking station and the establishment of Spaceport Cornwall at Newquay airport. Despite a failed launch due to technical issues, the spaceport remains licensed and continues to attract interest from around the world. The speaker highlights the importance of both vertical and horizontal launch capabilities for the UK's ambition in the space sector.
Government Response
Andrew GriffithIt is a delight to be here under the chairmanship of Christina Rees. The Minister congratulates Mark Garnier on initiating the debate about the UK space industry, noting the significant investment made in this sector, with spending increasing by over 70% since 2018-19 to approximately £650 million a year. He highlights the importance of the national space strategy and the role of the UK Space Agency in fostering innovation and economic growth. The Minister also addresses specific projects like Spaceport Cornwall and SaxaVord, emphasizing government support for these initiatives and underscoring their potential for levelling up regional economies. He mentions the investment into the UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund with £8 million allocated to help grow the space supply chain and skills. The Minister commits to publishing a space workforce skills plan before the summer break and reaffirms the Government's commitment to maximising economic and strategic advantage from companies like OneWeb. Finally, he expresses willingness for further discussions on these issues.