2nd Report - Scotland’s space sector follow-up: launch
Select Committee
Scottish Affairs Committee
HC 671
10 September 2025
Recommendations
1 results
1
Acknowledged
Provide substantial government support to Scotland's space sector, capitalising on global launch opportunities.
Recommendation
The global shortage of launch capacity combined with Scotland’s rapid sectoral growth and increasing international interest presents a time- sensitive opportunity that must not be missed. The Government must realise the massive potential for Scotland’s burgeoning space sector to contribute …
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Government Response Summary
The government states that its ambition to become a major European launching nation will provide industry with clarity and direction by 2026, though the specific actions or plans relating to this timeframe and commensurate support are not fully detailed in the provided response.
Scotland Office
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Conclusions (2) Observations and findings — click to expand
2
Conclusion
Acknowledged
Scotland is uniquely well-placed for launch because of its geographical advantage for polar orbits. SaxaVord is poised to provide a long-term sustainable launch capacity for the global market. Some limited UK Government funding and endorsement provided by the UK Government proactively championing the sector has helped unlock the private finance …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges Scotland's importance for launch capabilities, reiterating its commitment to the UK becoming a launching nation and highlighting £98m invested in the Scottish launch sector. It announces intentions to publish a new cross-government space publication in 2026, detailing its strategic approach to supporting the Scottish launch sector.
8
Conclusion
Acknowledged
There is a clear consensus among stakeholders that the UK must develop and maintain a sovereign launch capability to secure assured access to space. This is critical for national security and defence resilience. Without decisive Government support, the UK risks becoming dangerously dependent on foreign launch partners. This over-reliance could …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the importance of a domestic launch capability for national security and resilience, and highlights significant past and ongoing investments in the Scottish launch sector and UK launch companies to secure assured access to space.