Memorandum 118
Submission from British Telecommunications
plc
INTRODUCTION
BT's profile of space-related activities and
interests has changed considerably over the last few years and
is likely to continue to evolve. BT sees its future in space as
being to:
— provide satellite communication solutions
to extend reach for our business customers— using customised
VSAT, broadband and mobile products;
— extend services to other countries
who rely on satcoms for their international links; and
— provide new and innovative services
that use (and sometimes rely on) space capability, eg tracking
of goods, mobile data services, disaster recovery solutions and
the distribution of media and broadcast content.
BT sees its major growth coming from serving
large organisations by offering them advanced networked IT solutions
both in the UK and on a global basis. BT sees Space as offering
capabilities that can be incorporated into broader networked IT
solutions for these customers and we are increasingly relying
on other satellite industry players that offer capacity, infrastructure
and products.
BT responded to the BNSC's Space Strategy consultation
and we attach a copy for information, because it expands on some
of the issues raised below.
In direct response to the topics raised in the
Select Committee's Terms of Reference, BT has the following comments:
1. The impact of current levels of investment
on space-related activities on the UK's international competitiveness
in this sector
The Space industry is set to grow significantly
in the coming years. Many of the rapidly developing countries
are investing heavily into this field as well as the traditional
leading space countries. The UK currently has the capability in
terms of expertise, innovation and commercial awareness to exploit
this but some Government support is needed to maintain that leading
role. Success for UK industry will depend on whether the products
it produces are user-centred. Hence, while the UK should strive
to match investments in space sector made elsewhere to ensure
it is not disadvantaged, it should only do so where there are
clearly identifiable end-user benefits in view. In practical terms
this means adequately funding the ARTES and Galileo programmes
and looking at developing a national programme that fully supports
the development of new and innovative end-user services.
2. The benefits and value for money obtained
from participation in the European Space Agency and other international
programmes
BT generally believes that the UK gets value
for money for its participation in ESA and international programmes,
but needs to be more proactive within ESA and the EU to ensure
that the right direction is developed. It is important that Government
fully supports more user led programmes of work through a more
coherent and consistent approach. While we are well served by
our BNSC colleagues they do not seem to be fully supported by
some of their Government Department partners. This weakens their
ability to speak authoritatively for the UK compared with more
Space friendly European nations. We would support a more proactive
role for BNSC in policy formation and execution even if this means
changes to the way it is structured and operates.
3. The maximisation of commercial benefits
and wealth creation from UK space-based technologies through innovation
and knowledge transfer
BT believes this is a key area for the UK where
we already have considerable creative and innovative skills. Focus
on this through a properly funded National Programme would be
welcome.
4. The delivery of public benefits from the
space-related activities of different Government departments (eg
DEFRA, MoD, DTI, DfT), and the co-ordination of these activities
BT believes there are significant societal benefits
from greater use of space technology. However there appears to
be poor coordination across government despite BNSC efforts. More
active engagement between industry and the relevant Government
Departments would be of benefit. To ensure industry participates
fully, direct financial investment by the Government is likely
to be required.
5. Support for space-related research and
the UK skills base
BT believes that for the UK to retain its leading
position in the field of Space it will need to invest more in
developing its UK skills base. In an increasingly global market
place, organisations like BT have access to skills across the
globe. Many of the jobs created by the space industry will involve
IT and software skills to deliver service to customers. Fortunately
Space itself can generate interest in science and technology careers
for young people and therefore help to generate and develop these
skills.
May 2007
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