Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 13
13
Accepted
UK's long-term space ambitions require deepened international partnerships with European institutions
Recommendation
While Scotland has great potential to be part of a sovereign launch nation and a collaborative European partner, it is increasingly clear that space ambitions cannot be fully fulfilled in isolation. We are pleased to see that space has been included in the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, recognising its growing importance to national security. However, as highlighted in the review and in the evidence we have received, the UK’s long-term space ambitions must be grounded in deepened partnerships. To secure long-term resilience, economic visibility and geopolitical relevance, a cooperative approach must be embraced that aligns with European partners and institutions. (Conclusion, Paragraph 73)
Government Response Summary
The government states it is already developing and deepening international engagement, including with European partners, through various programs and bilateral agreements to strengthen cooperation and resilience.
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.