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To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if the Prime Minister will appoint a space minister in the Ministry of Defence to lead cross-government space policy.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if the Prime Minister will appoint a space minister in the Ministry of Defence to lead cross-government space policy.
My noble friend Baroness Lloyd of Effra is the Minister responsible for leading cross government civil space policy.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the full scope of Operation Olympic Defender.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the full scope of Operation Olympic Defender.
Multinational Force Operation OLYMPIC DEFENDER (MNF-OOD) is a US led multinational force which provides national-level authority for centralised planning of combined space operations. The core members are the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and New Zealand.
MNF-OOD's focus is to optimise space operations, improve mission assurance, enhance resilience of space-based systems and synchronise efforts to strengthen deterrence against hostile actors.
UK Space Command is leading the UK's contribution. The UK's role is to analyse and share information about the space domain to ensure troops on the ground are aware of threats and their options to maintain access to space services.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking with his international counterparts to encourage sustainable uses of space.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking with his international counterparts to encourage sustainable uses of space.
The government works bilaterally and multilaterally with international partners through the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space and the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee to shape and uphold standards, norms and best practices that define the in-orbit regime. We champion adoption of the UN Long-Term Sustainability Guidelines and support capacity-building via the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs to protect access to space for future generations.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to coordinate work on space between government, industry and universities.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to coordinate work on space between government, industry and universities.
The Ministry of Defence actively coordinates space activity across Government, industry, and academia to sustain the UK’s leadership in space innovation and capability. Through the Defence Industrial Strategy, and in collaboration with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and other government departments, we advance the National and Defence Space Strategies with a particular focus on Space Domain Awareness, delivered through the National Space Operations Centre. We work with universities through initiatives such as the Defence Universities Alliance and the Space Academy to address skills gaps, foster innovation, and support research in dual-use technologies.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to improve the UK’s space funding model.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to improve the UK’s space funding model.
The Ministry of Defence is committed to developing the Defence Space Portfolio and wider space requirements to harness space for national and military advantage. The recent publication of the Strategic Defence Review served to reinforce the importance of the domain and the need to invest appropriately. The level of investment is being tested and confirmed against current and future requirements through the development of the Defence Investment Plan which will provide the strategic capability direction for the next decade.
Defence and other Government Departments will ascertain space synergies, create a common demand signal with which to develop investment options for both the military and national advantage. Aligned to the Own, Collaborate, Access framework, the most effective mix of sovereign owned, collaboration with allies, and access though existing and new partnerships will be determined with which to deliver Defence and wider UK needs.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 29 August 2025 to Question 69060 on Flats: Standards, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of allowing for different space standards for flats for occupation by single adult households...
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 29 August 2025 to Question 69060 on Flats: Standards, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of allowing for different space standards for flats for occupation by single adult households...
The nationally described space standard in question is not mandatory, and it is at the discretion of local planning authorities to adopt those standards in their area where they believe there is a justified need to do so.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 34 of the National Security Strategy 2025, CP 1338, published on 24 June 2025, what the scope is of mechanisms within the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership to help improve space security.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 34 of the National Security Strategy 2025, CP 1338, published on 24 June 2025, what the scope is of mechanisms within the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership to help improve space security.
The Government pledged in its manifesto to pursue a new relationship with the EU to strengthen European security, support growth and reinforce NATO. The recently released Strategic Defence Review (SDR) further reiterates this commitment and recognises that international partnerships are crucial for the UK’s security and prosperity. The Government delivered on this commitment at the UK-EU Summit on 19 May where we agreed a new and ambitious Security and Defence Partnership (SDP).
Implementation of the SDP is a joint effort with the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office and is progressing. Since May, my Rt Hon Friend, Defence Secretary John Healey has held discussions with the European Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, where they discussed their ambition to explore the potential for enhanced UK-EU cooperation under SAFE. In October, the Foreign Secretary and the Defence Secretary will both meet with the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, for the first UK/EU foreign and security policy dialogue under the SDP.
In addition, Ministers and officials from across Government have held consultations with their EU counterparts on a range of issues, including but not limited to, tackling irregular migration and hybrid threats. We continue to work with EU counterparts to strengthen dialogue and mutually beneficial cooperation across the range of issues covered in the SDP, including maritime and space security.
As the Defence Secretary has previously said to this House, this Government will ensure that any UK commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value for the UK taxpayer and supports our defence goals. We will continue to prioritise engagement and cooperation on the issues that are most important in helping to safeguard European security and prosperity – all in support of this government’s NATO First defence policy.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the potential merits of renegotiating the 1967 Outer Space Treaty to reflect current exploitation of the difference between (a) air and (b) space.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the potential merits of renegotiating the 1967 Outer Space Treaty to reflect current exploitation of the difference between (a) air and (b) space.
The Outer Space Treaty (OST) is the cornerstone of international space law with all major space-faring nations being party to this treaty. The Treaty explicitly affirms that activities in the exploration and use of outer space must be carried out in accordance with international law, including the United Nations (UN) Charter. This includes the prohibition on the threat or use of force, which applies to States’ space activities, as it does to other domains. The Treaty also prohibits the stationing of nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction in outer space. The Treaty does not impose a formal distinction between air and outer space, and this has not impeded the UK’s ability to pursue its ambitious goals in both aviation and space.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Outer Space Treaty and the peaceful uses of outer space, ensuring space remains a safe, secure, and sustainable environment for future generations. Across government, there are efforts to strengthen governance of space more generally though the UN, including working through the UN Committee On the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and promoting norms rules and principles of responsible space behaviours to address threats to space systems.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the UK’s ability to defend itself against space-based critical national infrastructure attack.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the UK’s ability to defend itself against space-based critical national infrastructure attack.
The operational effectiveness of national space-based critical infrastructure is constantly being assessed against projected operational demands and emerging threats. Where necessary, adjustments are then made across the entire MoD Space enterprise to both ground- and space-based elements, wherever its most advantageous for preserving space infrastructure capabilities.
UK Space Command’s mission remains to protect and defend national and military space interests, and enable UK forces to operate globally. UK Space Command continues to work closely with both cross-Government and international allies and partners, to secure its freedom of manoeuvre and access to the space domain.
As the Strategic Defence Review set out, this Government is taking decisive steps to enhance the UK’s ability to deter threats in space and, if necessary, protect our systems. This includes playing a pivotal role in strengthening European security by investing in space control capabilities and deeper collaboration with NATO and allied partners.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to clause 31 of the Strategic Defence Review - Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad published on 2 June 2025, if he will list the membership of the Cabinet sub-Committee on Space.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to clause 31 of the Strategic Defence Review - Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad published on 2 June 2025, if he will list the membership of the Cabinet sub-Committee on Space.
I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 23 July 2025 to Question 68516 to the right hon. Member for Solihull West and Shirley (Dr Neil Shastri -Hurst), where I stated ‘I welcome the hon. Gentleman’s interest in space. The Ministry of Defence along with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and other departments, is coordinating space activities across government. Ministers from across government met on the 22 April to discuss space and, since the publication of the Strategic Defence Review, Ministers met on 7 July to follow up on our approach to space. We remain committed to establishing and evolving the right space governance structure to ensure that activities are effectively coordinated across all relevant Departments.’
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference paragraph 31 on page 21 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, which Department will lead the Cabinet sub-Committee on space.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference paragraph 31 on page 21 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, which Department will lead the Cabinet sub-Committee on space.
I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 23 July 2025 to Question 68516 to the right hon. Member for Solihull West and Shirley (Dr Neil Shastri -Hurst), where I stated ‘I welcome the hon. Gentleman’s interest in space. The Ministry of Defence along with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and other departments, is coordinating space activities across government. Ministers from across government met on the 22 April to discuss space and, since the publication of the Strategic Defence Review, Ministers met on 7 July to follow up on our approach to space. We remain committed to establishing and evolving the right space governance structure to ensure that activities are effectively coordinated across all relevant Departments.’
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to clause 31 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, when he expects the Cabinet sub-Committee on Space to be established.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to clause 31 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, when he expects the Cabinet sub-Committee on Space to be established.
I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 23 July 2025 to Question 68516 to the right hon. Member for Solihull West and Shirley (Dr Neil Shastri -Hurst), where I stated ‘I welcome the hon. Gentleman’s interest in space. The Ministry of Defence along with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and other departments, is coordinating space activities across government. Ministers from across government met on the 22 April to discuss space and, since the publication of the Strategic Defence Review, Ministers met on 7 July to follow up on our approach to space. We remain committed to establishing and evolving the right space governance structure to ensure that activities are effectively coordinated across all relevant Departments.’
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to clause 31 of the Strategic Defence Review - Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, published on 2 June 2025, who will chair the Cabinet sub-Committee on Space.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to clause 31 of the Strategic Defence Review - Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, published on 2 June 2025, who will chair the Cabinet sub-Committee on Space.
I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 23 July 2025 to Question 68516 to the right hon. Member for Solihull West and Shirley (Dr Neil Shastri -Hurst), where I stated ‘I welcome the hon. Gentleman’s interest in space. The Ministry of Defence along with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and other departments, is coordinating space activities across government. Ministers from across government met on the 22 April to discuss space and, since the publication of the Strategic Defence Review, Ministers met on 7 July to follow up on our approach to space. We remain committed to establishing and evolving the right space governance structure to ensure that activities are effectively coordinated across all relevant Departments.’
Q11
.
Olly Glover (Didcot and Wantage) (LD):
On a recent visit to the UK Space Agency, based in my Oxfordshire constituency, I learned of the huge value created by our space sector, generating more than £7 for every £1 invested. Given the Government’s decision to scrap the UKSA as an executive agency, will the Prime Minister guarantee its international credibility, its operational independence and its budget? And will he visit Harwell Campus to hear what our brilliant space companies need from Government?
Q11
.
Olly Glover (Didcot and Wantage) (LD):
On a recent visit to the UK Space Agency, based in my Oxfordshire constituency, I learned of the huge value created by our space sector, generating more than £7 for every £1 invested. Given the Government’s decision to scrap the UKSA as an executive agency, will the Prime Minister guarantee its international credibility, its operational independence and its budget? And will he visit Harwell Campus to hear what our brilliant space companies need from Government?
I thank the hon. Member for raising this important issue, and reassure him that we do want to keep the huge expertise and knowledge of the UK Space Agency staff, including those working in his constituency. We have already secured almost £300 million in contracts from the European Space Agency and this will cut costs, reducing duplication, so we can really focus on growing this important sector.
I thank the hon. Member for raising this important issue, and reassure him that we do want to keep the huge expertise and knowledge of the UK Space Agency staff, including those working in his constituency. We have already secured almost £300 million in contracts from the European Space Agency and this will cut costs, reducing duplication, so we can really focus on growing this important sector.
I thank the hon. Member for raising this important issue, and reassure him that we do want to keep the huge expertise and knowledge of the UK Space Agency staff, including those working in his constituency. We have already secured almost £300 million in contracts from the European Space Agency and this will cut costs, reducing duplication, so we can really focus on growing this important sector.
Q11
.
Olly Glover (Didcot and Wantage) (LD):
On a recent visit to the UK Space Agency, based in my Oxfordshire constituency, I learned of the huge value created by our space sector, generating more than £7 for every £1 invested. Given the Government’s decision to scrap the UKSA as an executive agency, will the Prime Minister guarantee its international credibility, its operational independence and its budget? And will he visit Harwell Campus to hear what our brilliant space companies need from Government?
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to amend nationally described space standards for flats.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to amend nationally described space standards for flats.
The government has no plans to change the Nationally Described Space Standard at this time.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 9 of section 7.5 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 2 June 2025, what his planned timetable is for the Cabinet sub-Committee or equivalent Ministerial group to meet.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 9 of section 7.5 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 2 June 2025, what his planned timetable is for the Cabinet sub-Committee or equivalent Ministerial group to meet.
I welcome the hon. Gentleman’s interest in space. The Ministry of Defence along with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and other departments, is coordinating space activities across government. Ministers from across government met on the 22 April to discuss space and, since the publication of the Strategic Defence Review, Ministers met on 7 July to follow up on our approach to space. We remain committed to establishing and evolving the right space governance structure to ensure that activities are effectively coordinated across all relevant departments.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 28 of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, how many exchanges the UK and EU have held...
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 28 of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, how many exchanges the UK and EU have held...
The Security and Defence Partnership agreed with the European Union on 19 May is an example of this Government delivering on our manifesto commitments to strengthen European security, support growth and reinforce NATO.
Implementation is progressing. Since May, the Defence Secretary has held discussions with the European Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, where they discussed our ambition to explore the potential for enhanced UK-EU cooperation under SAFE. The Foreign Secretary has also held talks with the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas on the geopolitical challenges that face our continent. We look forward to the foreign and security policy dialogue between the High Representative, the Foreign Secretary and the Defence Secretary this autumn.
In addition, officials from across Government continue to hold consultations with their EU counterparts on a range of issues, including but not limited to Iran, Russia-Ukraine, and tackling irregular migration.
As the Defence Secretary has previously said to this House, he will ensure that any UK commitment– whether financial or non-financial – provides value for the UK taxpayer and supports our defence goals. We will continue to prioritise engagement and cooperation on the issues that are most important in helping to safeguard European security and prosperity – all in support of this government’s NATO First defence policy.
The Defence Secretary and I look forward to continuing to update the House on developments. The Defence Secretary’s offer still stands that he is happy to arrange a discussion with the Member of Parliament for South Suffolk who has shown such interest in these topics.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 29 of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, what progress the UK and EU have made on...
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 29 of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, what progress the UK and EU have made on...
The Security and Defence Partnership agreed with the European Union on 19 May is an example of this Government delivering on our manifesto commitments to strengthen European security, support growth and reinforce NATO.
Implementation is progressing. Since May, the Defence Secretary has held discussions with the European Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, where they discussed our ambition to explore the potential for enhanced UK-EU cooperation under SAFE. The Foreign Secretary has also held talks with the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas on the geopolitical challenges that face our continent. We look forward to the foreign and security policy dialogue between the High Representative, the Foreign Secretary and the Defence Secretary this autumn.
In addition, officials from across Government continue to hold consultations with their EU counterparts on a range of issues, including but not limited to Iran, Russia-Ukraine, and tackling irregular migration.
As the Defence Secretary has previously said to this House, he will ensure that any UK commitment– whether financial or non-financial – provides value for the UK taxpayer and supports our defence goals. We will continue to prioritise engagement and cooperation on the issues that are most important in helping to safeguard European security and prosperity – all in support of this government’s NATO First defence policy.
The Defence Secretary and I look forward to continuing to update the House on developments. The Defence Secretary’s offer still stands that he is happy to arrange a discussion with the Member of Parliament for South Suffolk who has shown such interest in these topics.
Motion that this House has considered the impact of space weather on the UK. Agreed to on question.
Motion that this House has considered the impact of space weather on the UK. Agreed to on question.
I beg to move,
That this House has considered the impact of space weather on the UK.
It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Turner. There are debates in this House that deal with the visible challenges of our time, such as conflict, inflation and public services, and then...
I beg to move,
That this House has considered the impact of space weather on the UK.
It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Turner. There are debates in this House that deal with the visible challenges of our time, such as conflict, inflation and public services, and then...
It is a pleasure to serve under your chairship, Mr Turner, and I thank the hon. Member for Solihull West and Shirley (Dr Shastri-Hurst) for securing this important debate. Space weather has profound effects on our planet, particularly now that we rely so heavily on technology that can be affected...
It is a pleasure to serve under your chairship, Mr Turner, and I thank the hon. Member for Solihull West and Shirley (Dr Shastri-Hurst) for securing this important debate. Space weather has profound effects on our planet, particularly now that we rely so heavily on technology that can be affected...
It is a delight to see you in your place, Mr Turner, and to take part in this debate.
Given the weather we have been having, it is somewhat ironic that we are worrying about space weather. People sometimes think the sun is a wonderful thing and a delight when it...
It is a delight to see you in your place, Mr Turner, and to take part in this debate.
Given the weather we have been having, it is somewhat ironic that we are worrying about space weather. People sometimes think the sun is a wonderful thing and a delight when it...
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on developing a sovereign defence space capability in the United Kingdom; and what assessment he has made of the potential impact of this initiative on (a) national security and (b) military operations in...
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on developing a sovereign defence space capability in the United Kingdom; and what assessment he has made of the potential impact of this initiative on (a) national security and (b) military operations in...
The Ministry of Defence is working closely with other Departments to develop sovereign space capabilities, and with our Allies and partners.
We use the 'own-access-collaborate' framework to identify where the UK must own sovereign capabilities, access services from the commercial sector, or collaborate with our Allies and partners to secure military capabilities. This is achieved through the SKYNET military satellite communications programme and, most recently, the development of UK sovereign earth observation capabilities.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps he has taken to help develop international (a) norms, (b) rules and (c) principles on responsible behaviours in space since 5 July 2024.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps he has taken to help develop international (a) norms, (b) rules and (c) principles on responsible behaviours in space since 5 July 2024.
The UK has been advocating and building international support for norms, rules and principles of responsible space behaviours at the United Nations to tackle threats to space systems, reduce the risk of conflict and preserve strategic stability. Since 5 July 2024, the UK has:
Secured support for the UK-led resolution on responsible space behaviours at the UN General Assembly.
Ensured the mandate of the UN Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space in all its Aspects (PAROS) included norms, rules and principles of responsible space behaviours.
Used the International Security Fund to support diplomatic engagement with a broad range of countries on how responsible space behaviours can address space threats.
Shaped discussion on responsible space behaviours in the Conference on Disarmament.
That this House notes with deep concern the proposed US-UK-Australian military radar project, DARC (Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability), which would install 27 21m-high, 15m-wide parabolic radar dishes within sight of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park; believes this would severely harm the visual landscape, local tourism, and the internationally recognised natural ecology of the area; further notes the concerns regarding potential health risks posed by radiofrequency signals, as indicated by scientific studies, on residential populations located less than a kilometre from the site; highlights that DARC, as part of the AUKUS Treaty, is in violation of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty’s prohibition on the national appropriation of space and undermines international law; warns that the deployment of anti-satellite weaponry, for which DARC is a crucial targeting device, threatens to destabilise the civilian satellite network by generating hazardous space debris of a volatile and unpredictable nature which increases the probability of damage to essential infrastructure; urges the Government to recognise that DARC lacks strategic military necessity compared to other priorities; and calls on the government to permanently withdraw its planning application for the Pembrokeshire site and any alternative UK location.
That this House notes with deep concern the proposed US-UK-Australian military radar project, DARC (Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability), which would install 27 21m-high, 15m-wide parabolic radar dishes within sight of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park; believes this would severely harm the visual landscape, local tourism, and the internationally recognised...
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what discussions he has had with his EU counterparts on UK participation in the EU Space Programme.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what discussions he has had with his EU counterparts on UK participation in the EU Space Programme.
A Government priority is for a ‘reset’ in relations with the European Union, with a particular focus on driving economic growth, and improving our security and trade relationship.
Space has a fundamental role to play in achieving these ambitions, and we will continue to work closely with EU counterparts to identify areas to strengthen our space cooperation for mutual benefit. Discussions are taking place across Government regarding future UK participation in the next EU Space Programme, ahead of the next Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF). We will continue to engage with the EU Commission as this work progresses.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress his Department has made on achieving Goal 4 of the National Space Strategy, published in September 2021.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress his Department has made on achieving Goal 4 of the National Space Strategy, published in September 2021.
The Ministry of Defence has achieved major progress on the 'Protect and Defend' mission in space. This has been achieved through the development of our own capabilities, collaboration with our international partners and across government. The creation of a UK Space Command has brought a renewed focus to the importance of space, delivering new cross-government capabilities such as a National Space Operations Centre. We have committed to the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability alongside the US and Australia as a highly advanced tool to enhance our understanding of this vital domain. This has been underpinned by a £6.5 billion commitment over ten years to develop space capabilities, and through the Strategic Defence Review we are assessing the strategic landscape and threat picture to inform long-term decisions on investment in future capabilities.
I. National Risk Register 2025 edition. 187p. II. UK Government response to the Covid-19 Inquiry Module 1 Report. 41p. III. Letter dated 16/01/2025 from Pat McFadden MP to the Deposited Papers Clerk regarding the above documents for deposit in the House Libraries. 1p.
I. National Risk Register 2025 edition. 187p. II. UK Government response to the Covid-19 Inquiry Module 1 Report. 41p. III. Letter dated 16/01/2025 from Pat McFadden MP to the Deposited Papers Clerk regarding the above documents for deposit in the House Libraries. 1p.
Lords motion to agree the third report of the Liaison Committee on New committee activity in 2025 (HL 56). Agreed to on question.
Lords motion to agree the third report of the Liaison Committee on New committee activity in 2025 (HL 56). Agreed to on question.
My Lords, at the start of this year, the House appointed four special inquiry committees on, respectively, the Modern Slavery Act 2015, preterm birth, statutory inquiries, and food, diet and obesity. All those committees
have now published their reports. I give my considerable thanks to all Members who contributed to...
My Lords, at the start of this year, the House appointed four special inquiry committees on, respectively, the Modern Slavery Act 2015, preterm birth, statutory inquiries, and food, diet and obesity. All those committees
have now published their reports. I give my considerable thanks to all Members who contributed to...
What steps he is taking to help support the UK space sector.
What steps he is taking to help support the UK space sector.
We have already debated some of these issues, as the right hon. Gentleman knows, and he is right to stress that the UK space sector is one of our most important areas of possible economic growth. We want to maximise our unique potential in this area, and I look forward to working with him and the companies based in his constituency that are seeking to do this.
I thank the Minister, as this sector offers massive economic and strategic opportunities for the United Kingdom. The development of the Shetland spaceport at SaxaVord is now significantly ahead of the field, so getting that project across the line will bring benefits to other projects across the United Kingdom. Will the Minister meet me and the developers of SaxaVord in Shetland to discuss what the Government can do, directly or indirectly, to help?
I thank the Minister, as this sector offers massive economic and strategic opportunities for the United Kingdom. The development of the Shetland spaceport at SaxaVord is now significantly ahead of the field, so getting that project across the line will bring benefits to other projects across the United Kingdom. Will the Minister meet me and the developers of SaxaVord in Shetland to discuss what the Government can do, directly or indirectly, to help?
It feels like I will be meeting everyone, but I am very happy to meet the right hon. Gentleman. Indeed, I am meeting Orbex later today, because an important point is that we have a specific geographical and skills advantage in the launch sector, which we need to exploit to our best advantage for the whole UK economy. It is not just about what happens on Shetland; it is about lots of businesses in the supply chain, from mission control to technological support. Yes, I am very happy to meet him.
The first Farnborough International Space Show will take place in my constituency in March next year. With space agencies from across the world already signed up to attend, the show will allow the UK to stand on the world stage and showcase our position as a convenor of global innovation. Will the Secretary of State and the UK Space Agency pledge their support to the show and will he join me at this inaugural event?
The first Farnborough International Space Show will take place in my constituency in March next year. With space agencies from across the world already signed up to attend, the show will allow the UK to stand on the world stage and showcase our position as a convenor of global innovation. Will the Secretary of State and the UK Space Agency pledge their support to the show and will he join me at this inaugural event?
Farnborough has done an astonishing job at getting British aviation, which I have supported, into the global news. My dad served in the Fleet Air Arm back in the 1960s, and I went with him many times to Farnborough to see the planes he worked on up in the sky. As a country and a House, we should celebrate the fact that Farnborough is now moving into space. I am very grateful for what Farnborough is doing, and of course I will be there to participate in the event in any way that is meaningful.
Farnborough has done an astonishing job at getting British aviation, which I have supported, into the global news. My dad served in the Fleet Air Arm back in the 1960s, and I went with him many times to Farnborough to see the planes he worked on up in the sky. As a country and a House, we should celebrate the fact that Farnborough is now moving into space. I am very grateful for what Farnborough is doing, and of course I will be there to participate in the event in any way that is meaningful.
Farnborough has done an astonishing job at getting British aviation, which I have supported, into the global news. My dad served in the Fleet Air Arm back in the 1960s, and I went with him many times to Farnborough to see the planes he worked on up in the sky. As a country and a House, we should celebrate the fact that Farnborough is now moving into space. I am very grateful for what Farnborough is doing, and of course I will be there to participate in the event in any way that is meaningful.
The first Farnborough International Space Show will take place in my constituency in March next year. With space agencies from across the world already signed up to attend, the show will allow the UK to stand on the world stage and showcase our position as a convenor of global innovation. Will the Secretary of State and the UK Space Agency pledge their support to the show and will he join me at this inaugural event?
We have already debated some of these issues, as the right hon. Gentleman knows, and he is right to stress that the UK space sector is one of our most important areas of possible economic growth. We want to maximise our unique potential in this area, and I look forward to working with him and the companies based in his constituency that are seeking to do this.
We have already debated some of these issues, as the right hon. Gentleman knows, and he is right to stress that the UK space sector is one of our most important areas of possible economic growth. We want to maximise our unique potential in this area, and I look forward to working with him and the companies based in his constituency that are seeking to do this.
What steps he is taking to help support the UK space sector.
It feels like I will be meeting everyone, but I am very happy to meet the right hon. Gentleman. Indeed, I am meeting Orbex later today, because an important point is that we have a specific geographical and skills advantage in the launch sector, which we need to exploit to our best advantage for the whole UK economy. It is not just about what happens on Shetland; it is about lots of businesses in the supply chain, from mission control to technological support. Yes, I am very happy to meet him.
It feels like I will be meeting everyone, but I am very happy to meet the right hon. Gentleman. Indeed, I am meeting Orbex later today, because an important point is that we have a specific geographical and skills advantage in the launch sector, which we need to exploit to our best advantage for the whole UK economy. It is not just about what happens on Shetland; it is about lots of businesses in the supply chain, from mission control to technological support. Yes, I am very happy to meet him.
I thank the Minister, as this sector offers massive economic and strategic opportunities for the United Kingdom. The development of the Shetland spaceport at SaxaVord is now significantly ahead of the field, so getting that project across the line will bring benefits to other projects across the United Kingdom. Will the Minister meet me and the developers of SaxaVord in Shetland to discuss what the Government can do, directly or indirectly, to help?
I beg to move,
That this House has considered Government support for the space sector.
It is a pleasure to serve with you in the Chair, Mr Dowd. I welcome the Minister to his place and to his new role, and I wish him every success in it. When we talk about...
I beg to move,
That this House has considered Government support for the space sector.
It is a pleasure to serve with you in the Chair, Mr Dowd. I welcome the Minister to his place and to his new role, and I wish him every success in it. When we talk about...
I don’t think I ever was, actually.
Back in 2001, there was no such thing; the sector has emerged at a quite remarkable pace and has its roots in the early days of the coalition Government. Competitions were set up looking for opportunities to develop infrastructure in a UK space sector....
I don’t think I ever was, actually.
Back in 2001, there was no such thing; the sector has emerged at a quite remarkable pace and has its roots in the early days of the coalition Government. Competitions were set up looking for opportunities to develop infrastructure in a UK space sector....
I congratulate the right hon. Gentleman on introducing this debate. I wholeheartedly agree with the point that he made and I will explain why. The space technology exploitation programme was introduced in Northern Ireland in 2023 through a pilot scheme
“to enhance UK space capability by developing new technologies…to overcome technology...
I congratulate the right hon. Gentleman on introducing this debate. I wholeheartedly agree with the point that he made and I will explain why. The space technology exploitation programme was introduced in Northern Ireland in 2023 through a pilot scheme
“to enhance UK space capability by developing new technologies…to overcome technology...
The hon. Gentleman anticipates the tack I will take. Of course, we are talking about support from the UK Government for our space sector, but the success story that we have seen thus far has been achieved with remarkably little public money. The support required goes beyond the financial, often...
The hon. Gentleman anticipates the tack I will take. Of course, we are talking about support from the UK Government for our space sector, but the success story that we have seen thus far has been achieved with remarkably little public money. The support required goes beyond the financial, often...
My constituency has close links to Shetland when it comes to space, with the SaxaVord spaceport company headquartered in Grantown-on-Spey. I also have Orbex, with 130-plus employees in Forres, which is manufacturing rockets and will soon conduct launches in Sutherland. We know that for those companies, developing launch and manufacturing...
My constituency has close links to Shetland when it comes to space, with the SaxaVord spaceport company headquartered in Grantown-on-Spey. I also have Orbex, with 130-plus employees in Forres, which is manufacturing rockets and will soon conduct launches in Sutherland. We know that for those companies, developing launch and manufacturing...
In essence, yes, I do, and I acknowledge what the hon. Gentleman says about the siting of SaxaVord in Grantown-on-Spey. I pay tribute to Frank Strang, who has driven the project from day one. It has not always been straightforward—progress is never linear—but I am fairly confident that without somebody...
In essence, yes, I do, and I acknowledge what the hon. Gentleman says about the siting of SaxaVord in Grantown-on-Spey. I pay tribute to Frank Strang, who has driven the project from day one. It has not always been straightforward—progress is never linear—but I am fairly confident that without somebody...
There is of course room for more than one space launch site in the UK, and we wish SaxaVord well in its future endeavours. The Minister has talked about the economic benefits to the country, but for Sutherland a space launch represents a social benefit to young people and jobs...
There is of course room for more than one space launch site in the UK, and we wish SaxaVord well in its future endeavours. The Minister has talked about the economic benefits to the country, but for Sutherland a space launch represents a social benefit to young people and jobs...
Will the Minister give way?
Will the Minister give way?
Before I start, I refer hon. Members to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests. Everything the Minister has said so far is music to my ears. I hope to carry on as chair of the all-party parliamentary group for space, as I was in the last Parliament....
Before I start, I refer hon. Members to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests. Everything the Minister has said so far is music to my ears. I hope to carry on as chair of the all-party parliamentary group for space, as I was in the last Parliament....
I have every intention of building on all these relationships as fast as I possibly can. There are others—indeed, I am going to see Airbus in the next couple of weeks. Hundreds of companies in the UK are engaged in the various aspects of the value chain that lead to...
I have every intention of building on all these relationships as fast as I possibly can. There are others—indeed, I am going to see Airbus in the next couple of weeks. Hundreds of companies in the UK are engaged in the various aspects of the value chain that lead to...
I thought I might have stimulated the hon. Member.
I thought I might have stimulated the hon. Member.
That is a very fair point. All the new Ministers arriving in DSIT have been very keen to provide as much strategic clarity as possible about our direction of travel. Perhaps one could say that the advantage of having a decent majority in Parliament is that one can lay out...
That is a very fair point. All the new Ministers arriving in DSIT have been very keen to provide as much strategic clarity as possible about our direction of travel. Perhaps one could say that the advantage of having a decent majority in Parliament is that one can lay out...
Motion that this House has considered Government support for the space sector. Agreed to on question.
Motion that this House has considered Government support for the space sector. Agreed to on question.
You might have been!
You might have been!
It is a great delight to see you in your seat, Mr Dowd, not least because, as I have commented before, you are one of the snappiest dressers in Parliament and London fashion week is fast approaching. That is not part of my space portfolio, but it is part of...
It is a great delight to see you in your seat, Mr Dowd, not least because, as I have commented before, you are one of the snappiest dressers in Parliament and London fashion week is fast approaching. That is not part of my space portfolio, but it is part of...
I. Space Regulatory Review 2024: A targeted review of space regulations. 48p. II. Letter dated 16/05/2024 from Andrew Griffith MP to Greg Clark MP regarding publication of the review. 2p.
I. Space Regulatory Review 2024: A targeted review of space regulations. 48p. II. Letter dated 16/05/2024 from Andrew Griffith MP to Greg Clark MP regarding publication of the review. 2p.
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, how many defence firms did UK Defence and Security Exports support to attend the recent (a) Sea Air Space and (b) Space Symposium conferences in the United States.
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, how many defence firms did UK Defence and Security Exports support to attend the recent (a) Sea Air Space and (b) Space Symposium conferences in the United States.
a) Sea Air Space
0 – UKDSE did not support any defence companies to attend this event.
b) Space Symposium
0 – UKDSE did not support any defence companies to attend this event.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much his Department has spent on space integrated battlespace in each financial year since 2019-20.
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much his Department has spent on space integrated battlespace in each financial year since 2019-20.
The Space total spend on equipment costs by financial year is as follows:
FY | Total spend (million) |
2021-22 | £8.511 |
2022-23 | £13.786 |
The Space delivery team total spend on operating costs by financial year is as follows:
FY | Total spend (million) |
2021-22 | £2.421 |
2022-23 | £4.683 |
The Space team, which was stood up in March 2021, is a specific project team in DE&S and the figures above represent the total spend of that team. The figure does not represent the total spend on all space projects across Defence.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking to (a) monitor and (b) increase the demographic diversity of the space sector workforce; and what steps she is taking to tackle skills shortages in the space sector.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking to (a) monitor and (b) increase the demographic diversity of the space sector workforce; and what steps she is taking to tackle skills shortages in the space sector.
The 2023 Science and Technology Framework highlights the importance of a more diverse range of people entering science and technology roles.
The annual Size & Health of the UK Space Industry Report monitors gender in the workforce through an optional industrial survey, and government is exploring ways to expand beyond gender in future iterations. The UK Space Agency is also further developing monitoring and evaluation plans for its Inspiration Programme.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what her planned timetable is for the publication of the Space Sector Plan.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what her planned timetable is for the publication of the Space Sector Plan.
The Space Sector plan will be published in March 2024.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what the cost to the public purse was of her Department's expenditure on (a) space research and (b) promoting the commercialism of space research.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what the cost to the public purse was of her Department's expenditure on (a) space research and (b) promoting the commercialism of space research.
The Department for Science Innovation and Technology supports expenditure on space research as well as promoting the commercialisation of space research. The information is not available in the format requested as the Department’s spend cannot be accurately broken down into these two categories.
The UK Space Agency is the executive agency responsible for delivering the UK’s civil space programme. UKSA’s total budget, including earth observation, for the current spending review period is nearly two billion pounds.
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) supports a diverse portfolio of research and innovation initiatives. Approximately £540m of the UKRI budget covered by the current spending review period includes research on space.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what discussions the Government has had with the UN on international space conventions.
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what discussions the Government has had with the UN on international space conventions.
The UK Government is committed to the advancement of the peaceful use and exploration of outer space. The UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) is the primary multilateral forum which sets the future of global space law and guidelines for the benefit of all humanity: for peace, security and development. The UK attends COPUOS and its subcommittees, playing a significant role to shape law and guidelines that are fit for the future, strengthening relationships with Member Nations and showcasing UK thought leadership in space sustainability.
We also work closely with the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs and fund projects to support the peaceful uses of space, including the implementation of the Long-term Sustainability (LTS) Guidelines: publishing them in all six official UN languages and capacity building tools for emerging space nations. We and our experts in the UK Space Agency continue to work in these forums to improve the LTS guidelines and add to the range of guidance available.
The Government plays a leading role within the UN and with international partners to promote responsible space behaviours. In December 2021 the UN General Assembly adopted a UK-sponsored resolution, which established a new UN Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on reducing space threats through norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviours. In October 2023, the UK General Assembly agreed to set up a further OEWG to build on the discussions of the first.