Calls for more government support and faster investment if UK to lead in quantum computing | Computer Weekly

"The committee is amid an inquiry to pinpoint technological areas it claims DSIT should be championing through its work to establish itself as the new "digital centre for government". As part of this work, a committee hearing on 14 October turned its attention to what needs to happen to ensure the UK does not squander its potential to become a leader in quantum computing."

"Introducing the session, committee member and Liberal Democrat MP Martin Wrigley described quantum computing as being an "emerging and transformational technology" that the UK has the "very unusual position" of being "potentially world leaders" in. "This is an opportunity to not make the same mistakes we have made as a country with AI [artificial intelligence] and lose control to other nationalities, but to enforce the UK's lead," said Wrigley."

The Science, Innovation and Technology Committee examined DSIT's output and identified quantum computing as a strategic area needing greater government support to build sovereign capabilities. Committee members warned that without targeted backing the UK risks squandering its potential to become a global leader. Witnesses highlighted practical applications such as accelerating drug discovery, optimising supply chains and strengthening national security. Universal Quantum's CEO said the company could scale to a billion-pound enterprise with the right support and generate profound societal impact. Committee members warned against repeating mistakes made in AI by ceding leadership to other nations and urged enforcement of the UK's lead.

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