Lord Bowness Portrait

Lord Bowness

Crossbench - Life peer

Became Member: 17th January 1996


Secondary Legislation Scrutiny Committee
12th Jun 2014 - 27th Apr 2017
EU Energy and Environment Sub-Committee
12th Jun 2015 - 12th May 2016
European Union Committee
8th Dec 2003 - 14th May 2014
Human Rights (Joint Committee)
15th Dec 2008 - 1st May 2012
Intergovernmental Organisations Committee
15th Nov 2007 - 4th Feb 2008
Human Rights (Joint Committee)
2nd Dec 2002 - 8th Nov 2006
Committee on Chinook ZD 576
2nd Jul 2001 - 7th Nov 2002


Division Voting information

During the current Parliament, Lord Bowness has voted in 149 divisions, and 28 times against the majority of their Party.

23 Nov 2020 - United Kingdom Internal Market Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 5 Conservative Aye votes vs 203 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 319 Noes - 242
23 Nov 2020 - United Kingdom Internal Market Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 2 Conservative Aye votes vs 197 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 285 Noes - 224
18 Nov 2020 - United Kingdom Internal Market Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 15 Conservative Aye votes vs 190 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 367 Noes - 209
18 Nov 2020 - United Kingdom Internal Market Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 6 Conservative Aye votes vs 194 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 327 Noes - 223
9 Nov 2020 - Agriculture Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 1 Conservative Aye votes vs 220 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 130 Noes - 290
9 Nov 2020 - United Kingdom Internal Market Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted No - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 44 Conservative No votes vs 147 Conservative Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 165 Noes - 433
9 Nov 2020 - United Kingdom Internal Market Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted No - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 38 Conservative No votes vs 134 Conservative Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 148 Noes - 407
21 Oct 2020 - Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 1 Conservative Aye votes vs 215 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 168 Noes - 254
21 Oct 2020 - Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 4 Conservative Aye votes vs 209 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 320 Noes - 242
21 Oct 2020 - Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 9 Conservative Aye votes vs 197 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 166 Noes - 237
20 Oct 2020 - United Kingdom Internal Market Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 39 Conservative Aye votes vs 158 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 395 Noes - 169
8 Oct 2020 - Parliamentary Constituencies Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 1 Conservative Aye votes vs 208 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 319 Noes - 224
6 Oct 2020 - Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 6 Conservative Aye votes vs 196 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 312 Noes - 211
5 Oct 2020 - Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 4 Conservative Aye votes vs 203 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 312 Noes - 223
5 Oct 2020 - Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 4 Conservative Aye votes vs 202 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 323 Noes - 227
22 Sep 2020 - Agriculture Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 3 Conservative Aye votes vs 198 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 122 Noes - 234
17 Sep 2020 - Agriculture Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 4 Conservative Aye votes vs 201 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 280 Noes - 218
15 Sep 2020 - Agriculture Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 7 Conservative Aye votes vs 194 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 130 Noes - 225
15 Sep 2020 - Agriculture Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 3 Conservative Aye votes vs 182 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 258 Noes - 208
20 Jul 2020 - Business and Planning Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 2 Conservative Aye votes vs 201 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 128 Noes - 244
1 Jul 2020 - Prisoners (Disclosure of Information About Victims) Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 2 Conservative Aye votes vs 202 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 267 Noes - 241
23 Jun 2020 - Corporate Insolvency and Governance Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 5 Conservative Aye votes vs 203 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 160 Noes - 241
23 Jun 2020 - Corporate Insolvency and Governance Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 3 Conservative Aye votes vs 183 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 136 Noes - 220
23 Jun 2020 - Corporate Insolvency and Governance Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and against the House
One of 7 Conservative Aye votes vs 191 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 155 Noes - 326
22 Jun 2020 - Fisheries Bill [HL] - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 3 Conservative Aye votes vs 219 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 310 Noes - 251
17 Jun 2020 - Private International Law (Implementation of Agreements) Bill [HL] - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 2 Conservative Aye votes vs 214 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 320 Noes - 233
15 Jun 2020 - Extradition (Provisional Arrest) Bill [HL] - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 2 Conservative Aye votes vs 210 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 314 Noes - 230
20 Jan 2020 - European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill - View Vote Context
Lord Bowness voted Aye - against a party majority and in line with the House
One of 5 Conservative Aye votes vs 176 Conservative No votes
Tally: Ayes - 206 Noes - 186
View All Lord Bowness Division Votes

Debates during the 2019 Parliament

Speeches made during Parliamentary debates are recorded in Hansard. For ease of browsing we have grouped debates into individual, departmental and legislative categories.

Sparring Partners
Lord True (Conservative)
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
(8 debate interactions)
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative)
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
(6 debate interactions)
Baroness Vere of Norbiton (Conservative)
Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)
(4 debate interactions)
View All Sparring Partners
View all Lord Bowness's debates

Lords initiatives

These initiatives were driven by Lord Bowness, and are more likely to reflect personal policy preferences.


Lord Bowness has not introduced any legislation before Parliament

Lord Bowness has not co-sponsored any Bills in the current parliamentary sitting


Latest 50 Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department
1 Other Department Questions
16th Jun 2020
The Senior Deputy Speaker whether the Palace of Westminster will be deep cleaned prior to the return of the House in September.

The Senior Deputy Speaker has asked me, as Chair of the Services Committee, to respond on his behalf. The Palace of Westminster and outbuildings will continue to be cleaned throughout the recess period, following the Public Health England guidelines for non-healthcare premises. In anticipation of the return of the House following the recess, before the House sits, the Chamber will be given a full clean to include all surfaces used by members and staff. Surfaces and areas around the Chamber will also be cleaned with sanitiser including; Royal Gallery, Prince’s Chamber and Peers’ Lobby. Heritage items in these areas will continue to be treated in line with the appropriate guidance.
As is currently in place; an enhanced cleaning regime will continue when the House returns, with hourly cleaning of contact points around the Chamber and the Principal Floor. Elsewhere in the Palace, more frequent cleaning of the toilets, tea points, kitchens and contact points will continue to take place. Hand sanitiser will continue to be supplied at all entrances and access points across the Estate.

22nd Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether there is a memorandum of understanding in place between the National Space Council and the United Kingdom Space Agency; and if so, whether they will place a copy in the Library of the House.

The National Space Council is a Cabinet Committee that exists to "consider issues concerning prosperity, diplomacy and national security in, through and from Space, as part of coordinating overall Government policy.”

The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, whose department sponsors the UK Space Agency as an executive agency, is a standing member of the National Space Council. Membership and Terms of Reference can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-cabinet-committees-system-and-list-of-cabinet-committees.

It is a long-established precedent that information about the discussions that have taken place in Cabinet and its Committees, and how often they have met, is not normally shared publicly.

Lord True
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
1st Oct 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord True on 16 September (HL7614), whether any agreements in principle have been reached with EU Member States regarding mutual recognition of drivers' licences and disabled blue badges.

Constructive bilateral discussions with all 27 Member States are currently underway at official level. Announcements will be made in the usual way.

Lord True
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
2nd Sep 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord True on 29 June (HL5754), with which EU Member States they have held bilateral discussions about the mutual recognition of drivers’ licences and disabled blue parking badges; and what the outcomes of those discussions were.

Bilateral discussions with all 27 Member States are currently underway at official level and have been constructive. Further details will be published in due course.

Lord True
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
16th Jun 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress has been made in negotiations with the EU or bilaterally with individual member states on continued mutual recognition of (1) drivers licences, (2) EHIC cards, and (3) disabled blue parking badges.

The recognition of both driving licenses and blue badges is a member state competence and the Government is seeking to secure both with EU members via bilateral agreements. Discussions are ongoing in both of these areas. UK motorists will still be able to drive in the EU with their UK Driving Licence but some EU countries may require an International Driving Permit, which is available now from the Post Office. The UK Government is currently negotiating with the EU on future reciprocal healthcare arrangements as part of the negotiating group on ‘mobility and social security coordination’.

Lord True
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
21st Apr 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord True on 23 March (HL2421), how many agreements have been reached in respect of mutual recognition of (1) driving licences, and (2) blue badges.

The recognition of both driving licenses and blue badges is a member state competence and the Government is seeking to secure both with EU members via bilateral agreement. Discussions are ongoing in both of these policy areas. Recognition of disabled blue badges currently operates on a policy of goodwill among EU member states. The Government has asked UK local authorities to continue to recognise disabled blue badges and hopes that EU member states will reciprocate.

Lord True
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
10th Mar 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government under which part of The Future Relationship with the EU: The UK’s Approach to Negotiations (CP211), published in February, and in which group of the Terms of Reference on the UK–EU future relationship negotiations, published on 28 February, they intend to seek mutual recognition between the UK and EU member states on (1) the European Health Insurance Card, (2) drivers' licences, and (3) disabled blue badges.

As set out on 28 February in Annex A of the Terms of Reference on the UK–EU future relationship negotiation, 11 negotiating groups have been established.

The arrangements relating to future healthcare cooperation will be discussed in the group entitled ‘Mobility and Social Security Coordination’ including those that provide temporary healthcare cover for tourists, short-term business visitors and service providers.

The transport arrangements set out in the UK’s Approach to Negotiations will be covered in the ‘Transport’ group. Driving licences are a member state competence and we intend to conclude bilateral agreements to secure recognition of UK licences for visiting drivers (commercial and private) as well as exchange for UK licence holders who relocate to the EU.

Reciprocal recognition of blue badges operates across the EU on the basis of goodwill between member states. We’ve asked UK local authorities to continue to recognise EU blue badges and we hope that member states will do the same.

Lord True
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
11th Feb 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Bethell on 11 February (HL606) and to the Written Statement by the Lord Privy Seal (Baroness Evans of Bowes Park) on 3 February (HLWS83), whether they will now answer the question put; and under which heading in the Written Statement the issues raised regarding (1) mutual recognition of driving licences, (2) participation in the European Health Insurance Card, and (3) mutual recognition of disability parking cards, will fall under for future negotiations with the EU.

The Government considers these topics under “Other Areas of Cooperation” in the Written Statement by the Lord Privy Seal (Baroness Evans of Bowes Park) on 3 February (HLWS83). The Government remains committed to keeping Parliament and the public informed. Further details will therefore be provided as the negotiating process develops.

Earl Howe
Deputy Leader of the House of Lords
10th Feb 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they plan to seek an agreement on (1) mutual recognition of driving licences, (2) participation in the European Health Insurance Card, and (3) mutual recognition of disability parking cards, with (a) the EU, or (b) each Member State of the EU on a bilateral basis.

The Government considers these topics under “Other Areas of Cooperation” in the Written Statement by the Lord Privy Seal (Baroness Evans of Bowes Park) on 3 February (HLWS83). The Government remains committed to keeping Parliament and the public informed. Further details will therefore be provided as the negotiating process develops.

Earl Howe
Deputy Leader of the House of Lords
21st Jan 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they intend to negotiate terms to provide for (1) the mutual recognition of driving licences, (2) participation in the European Health Insurance Card, and (3) mutual recognition of disability parking cards, as part of a free trade agreement with (a) the EU, or (b) each member state.

I refer the noble Lord to Written Ministerial Statement HLWS83 made by the Lord Privy Seal.

9th Feb 2023
To ask His Majesty's Government how many provisions of retained EU law were incorporated into UK law by primary legislation.

The information requested is not held centrally by the Department of Business and Trade, primary legislation is outside the scope of the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
9th Feb 2023
To ask His Majesty's Government how many provisions of retained EU law were originally passed by the Council of the European Union by a qualified majority vote in which the UK voted against.

The information requested is not held centrally by the Department of Business and Trade.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
18th Oct 2022
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they still appoint directors to the board of OneWeb.

The Government currently appoints three non-executive directors to OneWeb’s board. Following completion of the proposed OneWeb – Eutelsat merger, Government would continue to be represented on the board of the combined business.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
18th Oct 2022
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the implications of being a shareholder in Eutelsat together with the government of China.

The China Investment Corporation (CIC) has a longstanding passive shareholding in Eutelsat of less than 4% that would be further diluted by the merger between Eutelsat and OneWeb. The CIC has never been represented on Eutelsat’s Board nor has it had access to any privileged information on Eutelsat or OneWeb’s operations.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
18th Oct 2022
To ask His Majesty's Government whether their sale of interest in OneWeb to Eutelsat of France was approved under the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

The merger between OneWeb and Eutelsat is subject to UK and international regulatory approvals, including under the National Security and Investment Act 2021. The Government does not comment on individual cases.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
18th Oct 2022
To ask His Majesty's Government how many OneWeb launches have taken place since Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the halting of launches by the Russian Soyuz; from what locations they were launched; and using what launch vehicle.

At the time of writing, no launches of OneWeb satellites have taken place since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. The next launch is currently scheduled for 23 October 2022 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in India, using a Launch Vehicle Mark 3 developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
18th Oct 2022
To ask His Majesty's Government what is the current value of their interest in OneWeb.

The value of the Government’s holding in OneWeb as at 31 March 2022 is £376m which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting and represents the latest point at which the Government valued the investment. The original equity investment was for £374m.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th May 2022
To ask Her Majesty's Government how many satellite launches have been achieved by communications company OneWeb, and how does this number compare with the targeted number.

Since February 2019, OneWeb has launched 66% of its planned constellation over 13 successful launches. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, OneWeb suspended the remaining six launches from Baikonur.

Following successful conversations earlier this year, OneWeb announced plans for future launches with SpaceX and New Space India.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th May 2022
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Callanan on 4 April (HL7258), how many of OneWeb’s satellites have been abandoned in Kazakhstan following the decision to suspend use of Russian Soyuz launch vehicles; what is their combined value; and what plans they have to seek their return.

This information is commercially confidential and is a matter for the company.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
23rd Mar 2022
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Callanan on 25 January (HL5301), whether OneWeb is still using Russian facilities for its launches after Russia's invasion of Ukraine; and how much is paid (1) directly, or (2) indirectly, to Russian organisations in respect of each launch.

The Board of OneWeb voted on 3 March to suspend all launches from Baikonur, Kazakhstan. OneWeb’s launch service provider, Arianespace, announced on 4 March it was suspending the use of Russian Soyuz launch vehicles.

Details of OneWeb’s launch agreements with Arianespace are commercially sensitive.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
11th Jan 2022
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Callanan on 28 July 2021 (HL2253), whether OneWeb is still using the Soyuz launcher at Vostochny in Russia for heavy launches; and what plans they have, if any, to use other facilities instead of Russian ones.

OneWeb’s launches are currently contracted with Arianespace, a French-headquartered multinational company. Arianespace use Russian launch vehicles, launching from the Far-East in Russia and Kazakhstan.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
11th Jan 2022
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether their golden share in OneWeb enables them to influence policy decisions, or whether they are limited to preventing disposals of shares; what percentage of the share capital in OneWeb they hold; and what financial benefits have been received since their purchase of the company.

The Government’s golden share in OneWeb provides us with the final say over any future sale of the company and over future access to OneWeb technology by other countries on national security grounds. The Government will own an approximate 17.6% stake in OneWeb when Hanwha System’s investment closes later this year.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
11th Jan 2022
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Callanan on 28 July 2021 (HL2257), what is the investment to date in (1) Spaceport Cornwall, and (2) Saxa Vord in Shetland; what is the state of launch operations at both sites funded by grants to (a) Virgin Orbit, and (b) Lockheed Martin respectively; and when they anticipate that there will be any launches from sites in the UK.

Spaceport Cornwall:

  • The UK Space Agency (UKSA) awarded £7.35m to Virgin Orbit to support horizontal launch from Spaceport Cornwall. £4.2m of the UKSA grant has already been disbursed to the grantee for completed milestones. Virgin Orbit’s plans currently anticipate launching from Cornwall Spaceport in the Summer of 2022.

Saxa Vord Spaceport:

  • The UK Space Agency awarded £23.5 million, in two separate grants, to Lockheed Martin. This includes £13.5m to establish launch operations at Saxa Vord Spaceport in Shetland and £10m for the research and development, build and flight demonstration of an Orbital Manoeuvring Vehicle (OMV). £5.3m and £8.5 respectively have been disbursed for completed work. Lockheed Martin are currently aiming to launch from Saxa Vord Spaceport in Autumn 2022.
Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
11th Jan 2022
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Callanan on 28 July 2021 (HL2254), what progress they have made, if any, to manufacture satellites in the UK.

Details of satellite production and manufacturing are a commercial matter for the company.

The Government is using its position on the board of directors to encourage expansion of OneWeb’s UK content including onshoring the manufacture of its Generation 2 satellites.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
11th Jan 2022
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Callanan on 29 July (HL2255), whether the Space Board Positioning Navigation and Timing programme has now reported on the options for the development of these services to the UK; and if not, when the report is anticipated.

The Programme has now reported on the options for improving the resilience of space-based PNT services, and the Government is considering the findings to determine the next steps as part of the business planning process.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
22nd Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government what department or organisation (1) is responsible for reporting on, and (2) determines the funding to be made available for, innovation in the space industry in the United Kingdom.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) oversees Government’s investment in civil space programmes.

The UK Space Agency, a BEIS executive agency, is responsible for developing and delivering programmes to support innovation in the UK space industry. These include:

  • Supporting the UK’s participation in world-class space exploration missions through our leading role in the European Space Agency;
  • Fostering the development of innovative new space-enabled products and services through the National Space Innovation Programme; and
  • Enabling the UK to build new capabilities to launch small satellites into orbit through the Spaceflight Programme’s investment in launch technology.

UK Research and Innovation also invests in multi-disciplinary research and development across the UK, which supports the exploitation of space technologies and pioneering scientific discovery.

The Ministry of Defence oversees Government’s investment in military space innovation.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
22nd Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by Lord Frost on 4 March (HL Deb, col 504GC), when they expect to publish their report on the new national space strategy.

This Government is committed to making the UK a global science and technology superpower and a meaningful actor in space. This will be achieved through the UK’s first comprehensive national space strategy that unleashes growth and innovation in the UK space sector. The strategy is progressing and will be published in due course.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
22nd Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether their agreement with the government of the United States of America regarding space launches from the UK will permit launches by US companies in competition with those based in the UK.

The Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) establishes the principles under which US spaceflight technology (including launch vehicles, equipment, information, spacecraft) may be licensed for export by the US authorities to the UK for use in spaceflight activities.

The TSA was negotiated to deliver maximum possible commercial benefit to the UK, permitting spaceports to utilise both US and non-US operators.

The UK has a lot to offer and a lot to gain from working with the US. With the necessary export licences in place, of which the TSA provides the security framework under which the US export approval process can be made easier and quicker, it will allow US satellite customers to launch on UK launchers therefore providing great opportunities for UK launch providers to increase their access to customers from the US.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
21st Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to their acquisition of a share of OneWeb on 3 July 2020, what loss was made by OneWeb at the time of purchase; how many directors are on the board of OneWeb; how many of those board members they have appointed; who they have appointed to the board of OneWeb; and whether they have a veto in relation to OneWeb’s (1) company policy, or (2) disposal of shares.

OneWeb has now raised $2.4bn of equity commitments from investors and while the most recent funding rounds are going through standard regulatory approval processes, we expect the company to begin generating revenues and profit in the coming years following the introduction of commercial services.

There are currently eight directors on the board, of which the Government holds three seats. These roles are currently filled by Hugo Robson (BEIS), Tom Cooper (UK Government Investments), and Rob Woodward (Chair of the Met Office). The board will expand in the coming months as recent investments receive regulatory clearance and independent directors are appointed.

The Government benefits from a number of board and shareholder reserved matters including some specific Government-reserved matters related to, among other things, the future sale of the company, future access to OneWeb technology and veto rights on the grounds of national security.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
21st Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Henley on 7 December 2018 (HL11885), whether the UK Space Agency has yet developed options for a UK Navigation Satellite System; if so, (1) what those options are, and (2) whether their costs are within the £92 million set aside for the Engineering and Design studies.

The Space-Based Positioning Navigation and Timing Programme (SBPP) is on track and is continuing to explore innovative ways of delivering space-based Position Navigation and Timing (PNT) services to the UK. The programme will advise on options to Government for a space-based solution to improve our PNT resilience, as part of a mix of technologies, in November this year.

SBPP follows on from the work of the UK Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Programme, which concluded in September 2020. The cost of this programme was contained within the £92m allocated. In conjunction with industry, the GNSS programme developed detailed designs for a Medium-Earth Orbit (MEO) PNT satellite system. SBPP is now looking at a broader set of innovative concepts for securing global space-based PNT services, to meet the resilience needs of our Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) and wider economic and domestic users.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
21st Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government how much funding (1) Lockheed Martin, and (2) Virgin Orbit, received from the UK Space Flight Programme, and for what purpose.

The UK Spaceflight Programme has provided:

  • £23.5 million in two separate grants to Lockheed Martin. This includes £13.5m to establish launch operations at Saxa Vord Spaceport in Shetland and £10m for the research and development, build and flight demonstration an orbital manoeuvring vehicle.
  • £7.35m to Virgin Orbit as part of £20m central and local government funding to support horizontal launch by from Spaceport Cornwall.
Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
21st Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Callanan on 20 October 2020 (HL8804), whether the Space-Based Positioning Navigation and Timing Programme has completed its exploration of new and alternative ways to deliver satellite navigation services to the UK; if so, what the result of that exploration is; and whether OneWeb has a role in any of the options being considered.

From October to November 2020, the UK Space Agency engaged industry and academia specialising in Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) via a Request for Information (RFI), designed to ensure a wide range of space-based concepts can be explored by the Space Based PNT Programme (SBPP).

SBPP’s analysis is ongoing and will assess how well different options meet the UK’s requirements for PNT information from space.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
21st Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans OneWeb has to manufacture satellites in the UK; when they expect any such manufacture to begin; what specific applications of OneWeb satellites they expect to benefit the UK; when they expect the development of second generation OneWeb satellites to be completed; and whether they expect the second generation OneWeb satellites to be suitable for Positioning Navigation and Timing programmes.

Details of satellite production and manufacturing are a commercial matter for the company. However, the Government would of course welcome R&D and manufacturing activity in the UK as part of efforts to grow the UK space sector.

The Space Based PNT programme is continuing to evaluate options for future PNT resilience in the UK.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
21st Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to their acquisition of a share of OneWeb on 3 July 2020, how many satellites OneWeb have launched since that date; where were those satellites manufactured; what launch vehicles were used; and from where they were launched.

Since the Government’s investment, OneWeb has launched 180 satellites, bringing the total number of satellites launched to 254.

OneWeb satellites are currently manufactured in Florida, USA. The payload (the active component), for the satellites is manufactured in the UK.

OneWeb currently utilises heavy launch via their ArianeSpace contract executed through the Soyuz launcher at Vostochny in Russia.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
6th Oct 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government when is the Space-Based Positioning Navigation and Timing Programme due to report.

The Space-Based Positioning Navigation and Timing Programme (SBPP) will explore new and alternative ways to deliver vital satellite navigation services to the United Kingdom which are critical for the functioning of transport systems, energy networks, mobile communications, national security and defence.

The new programme is developing its workstreams and a Request For Information has been sent to industry. Following this, the programme will conduct a number of assessments of potential options for a space-based position navigation and timing capability.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
6th Oct 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have agreed with their investment partners that OneWeb's manufacturing capability will be brought back from the United States to the UK.

The terms of the deal offer opportunities to bring future research and development and manufacturing to the UK.

OneWeb will consider any expansion of the company and its supply chain in the UK as part of their regular business planning process.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
6th Oct 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether their equity investment in OneWeb has been completed; and if not, whether there are any approvals from the government of the United States which are required before any such investment is completed.

On Friday 2 October 20, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York confirmed OneWeb’s Chapter 11 plan of reorganisation, ensuring that the company remains on target to resume full business operations imminently.

This is a major step in OneWeb’s reorganisation process, and toward HM Government’s equity investment being completed.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
6th Oct 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the announcement on 24 September that they "will explore new options for a UK satellite navigation and timing capability programme to support the nation’s critical infrastructure", whether OneWeb can be used to provide such support.

The Space-Based Positioning Navigation and Timing Programme (SBPP) will explore new and alternative ways to deliver vital satellite navigation services to the United Kingdom which are critical for the functioning of transport systems, energy networks, mobile communications, national security and defence.

Government investment in OneWeb was for a cutting-edge telecommunications capability based on market analysis. We have been clear that PNT service wasn't the rationale for this particular investment, but of course we are open to considering how alternative technologies including Low Earth Orbit constellations may be able to contribute to PNT resilience in the future.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
6th Oct 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to establish a launch mechanism for OneWeb satellites which is independent of Roscosmos.

The launch manifest and the chosen launch capabilities are commercial matters for OneWeb.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
2nd Sep 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government how many satellites OneWeb currently has in operation; how many it will launch next year; and whether those satellites will be launched by the Russian Federation Space Agency, Roscosmos.

OneWeb currently has 74 spacecraft in orbit. The launch manifest and the chosen launch capabilities are commercial matters for the company.

Lord Callanan
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
5th May 2020
To ask the Senior Deputy Speaker what plans he has to enable the House to return to functioning in the Palace of Westminster.

On 7 May the Commission agreed to proceed with plans for enabling hybrid sittings. Hybrid proceedings would involve both virtual and physical participants. Any return to members attending the House would need to be staged and in line with guidance from Public Health England, including social distancing measures. The Procedure Committee will need to consider the procedural changes required to enable hybrid sittings to work effectively, and members will be provided with more detail on this in the weeks ahead.

1st Nov 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answers by Baroness Barran on 19 July (HL1998) and Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay on 27 October (HL3096), what plans they have to protect consumers under the Mobile Roaming (EU Exit) Regulations 2019; and what discussions, if any, they are having with Ofcom on the imposition of roaming charges on customers travelling to the EU.

Consumers are protected under the Mobile Roaming (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 which is the legislation in force to ensure mobile operators apply a financial limit on mobile data usage while users are abroad. The limit on data usage abroad is £45, which means a consumer cannot spend more than £45 unless they actively consent to continue spending over this cap.

Officials have had recent discussions with representatives of Ofcom to discuss a range of issues, including on the issue of mobile roaming.

Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
14th Oct 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay on 12 October 2021 (HL2827), (1) when was the last occasion that they met with mobile network operators to discuss roaming charges, and (2) what steps, through legislation or otherwise, they are taking to prevent the reintroduction of roaming charges.

Ministers and officials have had recent discussions with senior representatives of mobile operators on a range of issues, including on the issue of mobile roaming. The last Ministerial-level meeting with mobile operators was in September 2021.

During negotiations for the Trade and Cooperation Agreement with the EU, the UK proposed the continuation of reciprocal agreements between the UK and EU to enable surcharge-free roaming. The EU did not agree. The decision on whether to impose a surcharge on consumers travelling abroad to the EU for their mobile phone usage is one for operators. We advise that consumers check with their operators before travelling.

Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
4th Oct 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answers by Baroness Barran on 13 February (HL605) and 19 July (HL1998), what discussions they have had with the mobile network operators Three, EE and Vodafone about the reintroduction of roaming charges for UK customers in the EU; and what steps they will take to prevent the reintroduction of these charges.

Ministers and officials have regular discussions with senior representatives of mobile operators on a range of issues, including on the issue of mobile roaming, and HM Government will continue to promote a competitive marketplace that serves the interests of consumers.

Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
14th Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 7 July 2021 (HL1337) regarding the duration of visa-free travel in the EU, and further to the Prime Minister's statement to the House of Commons Liaison Committee on 7 July (Question 125) regarding visa-free travel for touring artists and musicians that they are working to "sort it out", (1) who is working on visa waiver or extension, (2) to which minister they report, and (3) with which member states of the EU they are negotiating.

This government recognises the importance of our world leading creative and cultural industries. That is why the UK took an ambitious approach during negotiations with the EU that would have ensured that touring musicians, performers and their support staff did not need work-permits to perform in the EU. Regrettably, our proposals were rejected by the EU, but our door remains open if the EU wants to reconsider its position.

A bespoke visa waiver agreement with the EU would require the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) to be renegotiated. The TCA is the basis of our trading relations with the EU, and this is not going to be renegotiated. Furthermore, the Commission would be likely to argue that any EU-wide visa waiver agreement can only be part of a wider package with a binding non-discrimination clause and a reciprocal visa waiver agreement covering all current and future Member States. This was what the Commission proposed in the negotiations and would be incompatible with our manifesto commitment to retain control of our borders.

Our focus is now on engaging with Member States, who are principally responsible for deciding the rules governing what work UK visitors can undertake in the EU. We have spoken to every Member State, involving British Embassies and DCMS ministers. We have established that musicians and performers do not require visas or work permits for short-term tours in at least 19 out of 27 Member States, including France and Germany.

We are now working closely with individual Member States that do require visas or permits for short-term touring to encourage them to adopt a more flexible approach, in line with the UK’s own rules which allow creative professionals to tour easily here. These countries are Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, Malta, Bulgaria, and Romania. We are also still confirming the details of requirements with Cyprus.

Baroness Barran
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)
14th Jul 2021
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Barran on 13 February 2020 (HL 605), what legislation is now in force to ensure mobile phone operators apply a financial limit on mobile data usage while users are abroad; what are those limits, and what powers they have if any UK mobile provider gives notice to its customers that it intends to levy excess charges.

The Mobile Roaming (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 is the legislation in force to ensure mobile operators apply a financial limit on mobile data usage while users are abroad. The limit on data usage abroad is £45, which means a consumer cannot spend more than £45 unless they actively consent to continue spending over this cap.

The communications regulator Ofcom has powers to set out the instances where UK mobile providers are required to give notice of price changes. Ofcom’s General Conditions set out that providers should give notice not shorter than one month of any modifications likely to be of material detriment and allow its customers to withdraw from their contracts without penalty upon such notice.

Baroness Barran
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)
21st Jan 2020
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether, and if so how, they intend to ensure that UK consumers will continue to have the same benefits in respect of roaming charges as they currently enjoy under EU legislation after Brexit; and whether they intend to legislate to ensure that UK mobile services providers give the same protection to UK citizens as EU citizens in the EU currently enjoy.

The current rules on mobile roaming in the EU endure until the end of the Transition Period. Following the Transition Period the arrangements for roaming, including surcharges, would depend on the outcome of the negotiations with the EU. Discussions with the EU on arrangements for consumers, for example in the area of mobile roaming, are not precluded. However, the government has already legislated to ensure that the requirements on mobile operators to apply a financial limit on mobile data usage while abroad is retained in UK law post-Transition Period.

Baroness Barran
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Education)