Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 7
7
Accepted
Multiple UK and European spaceports can thrive through diverse networks and international cooperation.
Recommendation
There is enough custom for space launch services—both within Europe and globally—to sustain multiple spaceports across the UK and Europe. We therefore do not consider UK spaceports and Andøya to be existential threats to one another, but rather as facilities that can complement each other within a growing European launch sector. We encourage the UK Government to support a diverse spaceport network, whilst also fostering international cooperation to ensure sites like SaxaVord can thrive through regular and consistent launches. (Conclusion, Paragraph 50) National security and geopolitical advantages
Government Response Summary
The government states it is continuing to develop international engagement, including active participation in ESA and NATO STARLIFT programmes, to ensure resilient access to space. It outlines ongoing bilateral and multilateral engagements with various nations to promote collaboration and strengthen the UK space sector.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
• The Government is continuing to develop and deepen international engagement, including with our near neighbours, in pursuit of resilient and assured access to space. This includes active participation in the ESA Space Transportation Programme and the NATO STARLIFT Project, as well as ensuring that launches, controlled rocket stage return and debris re-entry mitigations are safely integrated into international airspace and marine environments networks. • Through participation and networking within these programmes, we are building and strengthening international relationships to identify common interests, and have established several lines of bilateral and multilateral engagement with other spacefaring nations, with a view to pursue co-operation agreements, jointly delivered programmes such as common standards and aggregation of or support for industry development projects – including with Denmark, Germany, Portugal, Norway, and the US. • Through such programmes and partnerships, the Government continues to promote UK interests, strengthen international collaboration, and ensure the UK’s space sector remains competitive and resilient.