TO BE PUBLISHED February 2025
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This conference focuses on next steps for quantum technologies in the UK - examining the new regulatory framework being developed along with implications for potential users of quantum technology, the quantum sector, and for regulatory bodies.
Delegates will assess the way forward for the regulation-by-application approach proposed by DSIT, and priorities for design and implementation of sector-specific regulatory frameworks for quantum.
It follows the Government’s recent response to the Regulatory Horizon Council’s Regulating Quantum Technology Applications report, agreeing with the RHC that it is too early to introduce overarching requirements and legislation for quantum technologies.
Delegates will discuss priorities for coordinating this approach, and supporting regulators to prepare frameworks for a quantum-enabled future, including priorities for the Regulatory Forum for Quantum Technologies, which will convene sector regulators to collaborate on quantum-readiness preparations.
With the potential impact of quantum on cybersecurity, the agenda looks at strategies for transitioning to post-quantum cryptography (PQC), including best practice and support needed for businesses and regulators in migrating to quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions. Attendees will discuss key stakeholder roles and responsibilities as DSIT prepares its industry engagement plan and in light of NCSC guidelines on coordinating PQC upgrades and technology refreshes, alongside temporary transition measures such as post-quantum traditional hybrid schemes.
The agenda will bring out latest thinking on the development of standards and industry-led principles, including international collaboration. Priorities for the UK Quantum Standards Pilot Network will be examined, including its role in informing the development of a business case to establish a Quantum Standards Centre in the UK. Attendees will also explore strategies for horizon scanning in informing future policy interventions, as well as key considerations for involving regulators in technological testbed programmes.
Further sessions look at implications of the regulatory approach for sector growth, with discussion on access to finance and attracting inward investment, as well as the way forward for the commercialisation and adoption of quantum technologies across the public and private sectors. Discussion will also consider priorities for upskilling staff and developing workforces to enable an efficient regulation-by-application approach to quantum technologies, and next steps for collaboration on identifying and addressing cross-cutting issues, such as privacy by design.
We are pleased to be able to include keynote sessions with: Josh Fedder, Deputy Head, Office for Quantum, DSIT; Stephen Almond, Executive Director, Regulatory Risk, ICO; Roger McKinlay, Challenge Director, Quantum Technologies, Innovate UK, UKRI; Jeremy B, Principal Technical Director, Cryptography and High Threat Technologies, NCSC; Dr Mike Short, Chief Architect, Satellite Applications Catapult; and former Chief Scientific Advisor, DBT; and Cat Mora, Director, Research Operations, Phasecraft.
All delegates will be able to contribute to the output of the conference, which will be shared with parliamentary, ministerial, departmental and regulatory offices, and more widely. This includes the full proceedings and additional articles submitted by delegates. As well as key stakeholders, those due to attend include officials from DSIT; Dstl; Defra; DBT; DESNZ; MOD; FCDO; DHSC; MHRA; NAO; HSE; UK Space Agency; UKHSA; DfT; and The Scottish Government.
