A new report published by the Regulatory Horizons Council (RHC) has set out a pro-innovation approach to regulating quantum technologies, in an attempt to set the stage for safe and effective advancement of the technology.

Commissioned as part of the UK’s National Quantum Strategy, the report provides policymakers, regulators and industry with crucial guidance to safely and effectively advance quantum technologies.

Quantum technologies already offer possible solutions to some of society’s challenges and provide future capabilities that are yet to be explored, from new sensing technologies to help screen for diseases, to quantum computers which could solve problems even the most powerful classical computers currently struggle with.

The potential is one of the reasons quantum has been prioritised as one of the government‘s five critical technologies, as set out in the UK Science and Technology Framework.

The RHC is an independent expert committee, sponsored by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). Its role is to identify the implications of technological innovation, and provide government with impartial, expert advice on the regulatory reform required to support its rapid and safe introduction.

The government hopes that quantum technologies will revolutionise many aspects of life in the UK and grow the economy.

While acknowledging the early stage of development for some quantum technologies, the report emphasises the importance of proactive discussions and planning for future regulation to provide certainty and encourage long-term investment.

It advocates for a pro-innovation approach that attracts and retains domestic and international expertise and fosters a competitive domestic landscape.

The report did however call for regulations specific to the different applications of quantum technologies, as well as pleading with lawmakers to plan for and monitor progression on the use and integration of quantum technology.

Writing to the RHC, science minister Andrew Griffith MP welcomed the report, highlighting the government’s plans to leverage technological innovation for growth and to establish the UK as a leader in regulatory best practice. The minister says that DSIT will lead the development of the government’s response to the report over the next three months.

“I welcome the Regulatory Horizons Council’s report and its recommendations to take a pro-innovation approach to regulating quantum technology as its use in our economy grows,” he said.

“Quantum holds immense promise, with the potential to revolutionise disease screening, advance quantum computing, and ultimately transform our lives and boost the UK economy.

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“In line with our ambitious National Quantum Strategy, our commitment of £2.5 billion over the next decade in quantum research and innovation is a clear signal of our resolve to stay at the forefront of this transformative technology.”

The report set out a total of 14 recommendations outlined within three categories, including regulatory frameworks and governance, standards and international collaboration, and innovation funding and market development.