Committee quizzes space minister Chris Bryant on support for the future of Scotland’s launch capabilities
The Scottish Affairs Committee will question space sector Minister, Chris Bryant, in the final evidence session of its inquiry into Scotland’s rocket launch capabilities. Alongside the Minister, the committee will hear from academics, satellite manufacturers, regulatory bodies and government agencies.
Meeting details
In the first panel, Members will hear from academics and satellite manufacturer AAC Clyde Space. Questions could explore the key challenges and opportunities for Scotland in achieving launch readiness, the demand for small satellite launches and the role of academia and government in advancing the launch sector and space technology.
In the second panel, Members will then question the Civil Aviation Authority, the UK’s aviation regulator. They may discuss the Authority’s role and performance as space regulator, including the licensing processes for launch companies, and how its regulatory approach has attracted other launch providers to Scotland.
In the final session, the committee will hear from DSIT minister with responsibility for the space sector, Sir Chris Bryant MP, and the UK Space Agency. MPs are likely to discuss how the UK Government is supporting Scotland to achieve end-to-end launch capability, the sustainability of launch activity and the role of the government as a customer.
Questions could also be asked about how Scotland’s space sector can differentiate itself from other competitors across Europe and the world.