The Secretary of Sate for Science, Innovation and Technology, Michelle Donelan, paid a visit to Teddington yesterday (March 23) to visit the National Physical Laboratory's (NPL) new Advanced Quantum Metrology Laboratories.

The cabinet minister's visit coincided with the recent release of the National Quantum Strategy, setting out the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology's (DSIT) new ten-year commitment to quantum technologies in the UK, including more than doubling the government's current investment into quantum to £2.5 billion over the next 10 years.

The new laboratories at NPL are set to play a leading role in the development of new products based on quantum technologies and the UK's continued investment in the growing quantum sector.

Companies developing quantum technology products that rely on time and frequency signals will be able to use the laboratories to test and evaluate their products whilst UK universities will be able to advance their research capabilities.

During the visit, Ms Donelan met with apprentices to discuss the work they are currently conducting as part of their apprenticeship and heard about the skills they are learning whilst undertaking work within the laboratories. 

Michelle Donelan in conversation with members of NPL (image supplied)

The Secretary of State said: "Quantum technologies are a game-changer for the UK. Investing in this cutting-edge technology, as well as state-of-the-art facilities like the Advanced Quantum Metrology Laboratories, will help lead to ground-breaking discoveries in science, healthcare and beyond. 

"Through our National Quantum Strategy, we have more than doubled our investment in quantum to £2.5bn over the next 10 years. This will ensure the UK's lead in quantum translates through to a thriving, world-leading quantum industry that creates high-quality jobs, drives growth and ultimately ensures we can improve everyday lives."

CEO of NPL, Dr Peter Thompson added: "The UK is ideally placed to emerge as a global leader in quantum technologies. Our new Advanced Quantum Metrology Laboratories takes us a step closer to realising this vision, satisfying a need for robust testing in quantum that will play a vital role for exciting new products in this area.

"Our laboratories will bring quantum innovation to life, utilising the science and technology capability of NPL to create impact in new ways, not only enabling us to develop and showcase the latest advancements in quantum technologies, but also offering a world leading space for us to collaborate with academic partners and industry.

"This will bring new skills to the sector and aid in new breakthroughs, which will support jobs and the economy in the UK."