The government has announced a new package of measures aimed at becoming the first country in the world to roll out Quantum computers at scale.
The UK plans to use Quantum technology to help deliver personalised treatments, potential cures for diseases, safeguard security and deliver high-paid jobs.
The government has announced £2 billion of government investment to ensure the UK stays at the forefront of Quantum innovation.
A new procurement programme: "ProQure:Scaling UK Quantum Computing” will launch next week and companies will be invited to table proposals to deliver state of the art prototypes for evaluation. The most promising companies will be invited to deliver larger scale machines for use by scientists, researchers, the public sector, and businesses.
Estimates show Quantum could boost productivity by 7 per cent in the next 2 decades, creating more than 100,000 jobs in the process.
Q-BIOMED researchers at the University College London are already exploring wearable brain scanners to support people suffering from epilepsy.
Over £1 billion over the next four years will invested to put Quantum into action by investing at scale in technology development, skills and facilities.
Over £500 million will be dedicated to Quantum computing, helping companies scale and develop new uses for the technology in areas like pharmaceuticals, financial services, and energy.
There's £400 million to support breakthroughs in sensing and navigation and the skills and infrastructure needed to bring these technologies to market.
£125 million has been allocated for Quantum networking and £205 million for Quantum sensing and navigation to accelerate innovations in medical diagnostics, greenhouse gas monitoring, and ultra-secure communications. It is hoped this will boost the UK's ability to to diagnose and treat medical conditions like childhood epilepsy and potentially Alzheimer’s.
The UK’s 5 National Quantum Research Hubs delivered by UK Research and Innovation are to receive an extra £13.8 million with researchers working in healthcare, clean energy, and national security projects among the first to get access Quantum tech.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: "I am determined this country grasps the benefits will Quantum computing will bring. It is only by keeping pace with technological progress that we can deliver the high-paid jobs, cutting-edge public services, and innovations which change lives.
"Today’s announcements are an investment in our future - unlocking better health, wealth, and more opportunities for communities across the country.
"This government is ushering in a Quantum leap - making the choice today to back UK scientists, companies, and innovators so we can deliver a future that works for all."
