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Space Industry
11 June 2025
Lead MP
Mark Garnier
Wyre Forest
Con
Responding Minister
Sarah Jones
Tags
EconomyTaxation
Word Count: 13040
Other Contributors: 12
At a Glance
Mark Garnier raised concerns about space industry in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The UK should define its ambitions for the space sector and continue supporting private companies like Orbex with £20 million this year, developing low Earth orbit launches from SaxaVord in Shetlands. Continued support for European Space Agency membership and its launcher challenge programme is crucial to seize opportunities in European launch services.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The global space industry is expected to grow from $630 billion in 2023 to between $1.2 trillion and $2.2 trillion by 2035, driven by a 90% drop in launch costs over the last two decades and commercial innovation in components and software. The UK's space economy is valued at £19 billion and supports about 52,000 jobs through nearly 2,000 businesses, but there has been a perceived reduction in ambition from previous Government plans to secure 10% of the global space economy by 2035.
St Ives
The hon. Member highlighted Goonhilly Earth Station in his constituency, noting its role in deep space research, commercial communication services, and supporting missions around Mars. He also emphasised the need for international cooperation and government support to foster contracts with foreign entities. Discussed Goonhilly's importance to the country. Asked about conversations between the UK Government and NASA regarding trade with the US.
Carla Lockhart
DUP
Upper Bann
Emphasises the need for Northern Ireland to have a seat at the table for future UK policies on aerospace and space industry, given its strong manufacturing base.
Chris McDonald
Lab
Stockton North
The north-east of England, particularly at NETPark, houses three catapults and several companies that contribute significantly to the space industry. The sector currently contributes £130 million to the local economy with 1,300 employees in about 48 businesses. Discussed the Boulby mine cluster and importance of avoiding valley of death.
Greg Smith
Con
Mid Buckinghamshire
The hon. Member for Mid Buckinghamshire praised the space industry's importance and highlighted the need for certainty in R&D investment and long-term procurement planning to support SMEs. Praised Chris McDonald's points regarding avoiding valley of death scenario.
Epsom and Ewell
The hon. Member questioned whether long-term funding is vital for securing economic resilience and defence sovereignty, agreeing that UK firms need international cooperation following Brexit.
Jayne Kirkham
Lab/Co-op
Truro and Falmouth
The MP stressed the importance of Cornwall's space sector due to its unique geography offering advantages for innovation and economic opportunity across local communities. Talked about Spaceport Cornwall and skills development.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Presents Northern Ireland's perspective on the space industry, highlighting its importance with 8,000 jobs and a rich history in aerospace engineering. Emphasised the importance of defence and aerospace industry in Northern Ireland.
Mark Garnier
Con
Wyre Forest
Secured the debate and spoke about the economic benefits of satellite technology.
Sarah Jones
Con
Harpenden and Berkhamsted
Discussed the importance of international partnerships and support for companies in getting contracts, mentioning an 11% uplift to the UK Space Agency’s budget.
Sarah Russell
Lab
Congleton
The MP highlighted Jodrell Bank's significance within her constituency, emphasizing its role as an employer and a visitor attraction. She noted the site's contribution to scientific research and education, welcoming over 180,000 visitors annually, including 200 school pupils daily during term time. Talked about Jodrell Bank, Lovell telescope, and STEM education importance.
Stephen Kinnock
Lab
Islwyn
Discussed the manufacturing and engineering sector's role in space technology, highlighting companies such as Surrey Satellite Technology and Magdrive. Mentioned sustainability-focused companies like Astroscale and ClearSpace, and their involvement with UK sovereign missions to clean up space debris. Suggested the City of London could adopt innovative financial measures to attract investment in the space industry, similar to successful film industry tax breaks. Discussed the strategic defence review's recognition of space technology's importance for national security and economic interests.
Harpenden and Berkhamsted
Emphasised the importance of space technology to Britain's economy, highlighting that 18% of Britain’s economy depends on space-related technologies.
Government Response
Sarah Jones
The Minister for Industry
Government Response
Acknowledged the economic benefits and productivity of the UK space industry, mentioned upcoming industrial strategy focusing on advanced manufacturing, discussed the importance of finance and regulatory frameworks for growth, and highlighted future initiatives like launching British satellites from Scotland. Emphasised the government's commitment to supporting the space industry through investment and international partnerships, highlighting recent funding rounds and agreements with companies like BAE Systems. Mentioned plans to release a trade strategy in coming weeks focusing on export opportunities. The Minister spoke about the importance of the UK's industrial strategy in supporting key sectors like space finance. He highlighted the significance of the global space finance summit at the end of the year and stressed that various important economic sectors need to engage with space technology for continued relevance and growth. The minister invited contributions from speakers who expressed interest in participating.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.