How to boost the UK semiconductor industry – Business Committee to question experts

1 June 2022

The Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee holds the first session of its new inquiry into the UK’s semiconductor industry.

Semiconductors are an essential component of computer chips, and a global shortage of them has impacted production of a range of popular goods such as the Mini and the PlayStation 5. There are also concerns that shortages could contribute to price inflation.

MPs will question experts from three industry groups about the strengths and weaknesses of the UK’s semiconductor manufacturing sector. The inquiry also comes amid the Government’s announcement that it will review the potential takeover of the Newport Wafer Fab factory in south Wales by a company with links to the Chinese state.

During this session the cross-party Committee will seek witnesses’ views on future challenges and opportunities for UK businesses; the Government’s approach to the industry; and the UK’s positioning in the global market and the potential for collaboration with international partners.

There will also be questions on the resilience of supply chains, whether UK firms could benefit from increasing their trade with other domestic companies or by exporting, and whether the industry needs to be scaled up.

The BEIS Committee is currently accepting written evidence from interested parties to help inform this inquiry.

Witnesses

Tuesday 7 June

 Panel 1 - 10.15am - 10.50am  

Martin McHugh, CEO, Compound Semiconductor Application Catapult
Alastair McGibbon, Head of Business Development, Compound Semiconductor Application Catapult 
Dr Andy Sellars, Strategic Development Director, Compound Semiconductor Application Catapult

Panel 2 - 10.50am - 11.30am   

Alan Banks, CEO, TechWorks
John Docherty, Industry Expert, TechWorks
Jillian Hughes, Director, National Microelectrics Institute (NMI)

Further information

Image: Republica/Pixabay