Spring Budget 2024: NHS AI, Space Connectivity, Quantum computing

Technology-related subjects included increased use of AI in the NHS, funding for the SaxaVord Spaceport and a quantum computing error correction programme, along with mentions of drones and facial recognition

For example, one of the budget announcements involved a Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (CLEO) programme: the government is confirming up to £100 million to launch the national component of the full £160 million programme. This will, it says, “enable UK researchers and businesses to perform the research and development needed for the next generation of satellite constellations”.

In a mention of quantum technology, the government is allocating £1.6 million in 2024-25 to an error correction programme in quantum computing.