A new report by the Regulatory Horizons Council has set out a pro-innovation approach to regulating quantum technologies, cementing the UK’s position as a global leader in the technology.
Commissioned as part of the UK’s National Quantum Strategy, the report provides the industry with guidance to advance innovative quantum technologies.
This report indicates the fulfilment of a crucial aspect of the strategy, which aims to establish regulatory guidelines in the UK supporting innovation and ethical use of quantum technologies, while ensuring the protection of national capabilities and security.
The RHC, an independent expert committee sponsored by the Department for Science, offers impartial, expert guidance to the government regarding necessary regulatory reforms to facilitate the swift and secure integration of new technologies.
Why are quantum technologies important?
Quantum technologies offer possible solutions to some of society’s greatest challenges. From sensing technologies to help screen for diseases to quantum computers, they could solve problems even the most powerful classical computers currently struggle with.
The potential of the technology is one of the reasons it has been prioritised as one of the government’s five critical technologies, as set out in the UK Science and Technology Framework.
Over the coming years, quantum technologies are expected to revolutionise many aspects of life in the UK and bring enormous benefits such as helping to grow our economy and create well-paid jobs across the country.
UKQuantum’s Executive Director, Jonathan Legh-Smith, said: “Quantum technologies will be transformative across many sectors critical to our economy and society, including health, energy, communications, finance and security.”
The importance of proactive discussions
The report highlights the importance of proactive discussions and planning for future regulation to provide certainty and encourage long-term investment.
It advocates for a pro-innovation approach that attracts expertise and fosters a competitive domestic landscape.
The DSIT will lead the development of the government’s response to the report over the next three months.
The report outlines 14 recommendations within three categories
The three categories are:
- Regulatory frameworks and governance;
- Standards and international collaboration; and
- Innovation funding and market development.
Stakeholders within the quantum technology sector have expressed support for the RHC’s findings. The report emphasises the need for a regulatory approach that promotes innovation and ensures safety.
The National Quantum Strategy
Published in March 2023, the National Quantum Strategy commits £2.5bn to develop quantum technologies in the UK over the next ten years. This is set to more than double the current public investment, aiming to generate an additional £1bn of private investment into the programme.
The strategy provides a bold approach to supporting quantum technologies in the UK. It sets out how the UK will develop its strengths across different hardware platforms, software, and components, and reinforce our capabilities throughout the supply chains.
Fostering growth in the UK quantum industry
The RHC is now undertaking further work to identify priorities in regulating emerging technologies.
The report on quantum technologies marks a significant step in creating a regulatory environment that supports innovation in the UK quantum industry.
