1Introduction
Background
1.Quantum technologies are a group of technologies that make use of the sometimes counter-intuitive behaviour governed by quantum physics,1 and already include world-changing technologies such as lasers and computers. Intensive research over the past few decades has improved the extent to which quantum behaviour can be reliably controlled and put to use, enabling the development of a new generation of quantum technologies with superior or sometimes revolutionary capabilities compared to conventional alternatives. This new generation encompasses a variety of technologies, such as quantum clocks, sensors, cameras and communications systems, the first of which are nearing commercialisation now.
2.In the 2013 Autumn Statement, the UK government announced an investment of £270m over five years into a National Quantum Technologies Programme “to support translation of the UK’s world leading quantum research into application and new industries”.2 The National Programme comprised four National Hubs, spread across multiple networks of universities, as well as Centres for Doctoral Training, funding for innovation and demonstrator projects, and the establishment of a Quantum Metrology Institute at the National Physical Laboratory. The initial funding allocated to the National Programme was due to come to an end in 2019.3
3.The Government Office for Science published a review of quantum technologies in 2016, at the mid-point of the initial funding schedule for the National Programme.4 The report made eleven recommendations, including a conclusion that “there is a strong case for continuing the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme to maintain our world-leading position in a promising and now globally emerging area of technology”.5 With the 2019 end-date for the funding of the first phase of the National Programme approaching, we decided to launch an inquiry to assess the opportunity of quantum technologies, the progress of the National Quantum Technologies Programme to date, the case for continuing the Programme into a second phase and, if appropriate, to explore what a second phase of the National Programme should entail.
Our inquiry
4.We received over 30 pieces of written evidence and took oral evidence from 26 witnesses, including academics, research and technology organisations, learned societies, small and medium-sized enterprises, large corporations, representatives from the National Quantum Technologies Programme and the Minister of State for Universities, Science, Research and Innovation. We also visited the University of Strathclyde and the University of Glasgow to learn more about work being undertaken as part of the National Quantum Technologies Programme. To assist us in our work, we appointed Professor Peter Dobson, Visiting Professor at University College London and King’s College London, to act as our Specialist Advisor for this inquiry.6 We are grateful to everyone who contributed to our inquiry.
5.In this Report, we consider the opportunities for economic growth and societal benefit presented by quantum technologies, as well as the potential risks that must be managed, and make recommendations to the Government regarding the future of the National Quantum Technologies Programme. Specifically:
- Chapter 2 examines quantum technologies and their likely applications, and reviews the progress of the National Quantum Technologies Programme so far and the case for continuing the Programme into a second phase;
- Chapters 3, 4, 5 and 6 set out what the second phase of the National Quantum Technologies Programme should encompass, focusing on governance, Innovation Centres, funding and skills respectively; and
- Chapter 7 discusses the potential benefits and risks to society posed by quantum technologies, and how these can best be managed.
1 Behaviour allowed by quantum mechanics includes objects behaving both as particles and waves, existing in a combination of states simultaneously (for example, simultaneously spinning clockwise and anticlockwise), and apparently interacting with distant objects instantaneously.
2 HM Treasury, ‘Autumn Statement 2013’ (2013), para 1.210
4 Government Office for Science, ‘The Quantum Age: technological opportunities’ (2016); The Government Office for Sciencea dvises the Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet “to ensure that government policies and decisions are informed by the best scientific evidence and strategic long-term thinking”—’About us’, Government Office for Science, accessed 15 November 2018
5 Government Office for Science, ‘The Quantum Age: technological opportunities’ (2016), p10
6 Professor Dobson declared his interests on 5 September 2018: Advisor to Bikanta
Published: 6 December 2018