The UK's Quantum Computing Race: A Call to Action

Tony Blair, former British Prime Minister, has issued a stark warning regarding the UK's position in the global quantum computing race, stating that “history won’t forgive us” if the country fails to capitalize on its existing research capabilities. In a report co-authored with William Hague, Blair emphasizes the necessity for a comprehensive national strategy to harness quantum technology, which is anticipated to revolutionize industries such as drug design, climate modeling, and cybersecurity. The report highlights that while the UK is home to the second highest number of quantum startups globally, it lacks the high-risk capital and infrastructure necessary for scaling these ventures.

‘History Won’t Forgive Us’ if We Fall Behind on Quantum Computing, Say Blair And Hague

The urgency of Blair's message is underscored by recent developments in the quantum sector. For instance, John Clarke, a Cambridge-educated physicist, was awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize for his contributions to quantum computing. Concurrently, UK quantum firms are increasingly being acquired by US companies, raising concerns about the country's ability to maintain its technological edge. Notably, Oxford Ionics was sold for $1.1 billion to IonQ, and PsiQuantum, a spinout from Bristol University, is primarily developing its technology in California.

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Blair and Hague's report warns that countries like China, the US, Germany, Australia, Finland, and the Netherlands are advancing rapidly in quantum technology, potentially leaving the UK strategically exposed. The authors argue that the UK must not only invest in its own capabilities but also foster international collaborations to remain competitive.

‘History Won’t Forgive Us’ if We Fall Behind on Quantum Computing, Say Blair And Hague

In response to these challenges, a government spokesperson acknowledged the transformative potential of quantum technology, stating that the UK ranks second globally for quantum investment. The government has committed to a 10-year funding initiative for the National Quantum Computing Centre and has allocated £670 million to accelerate quantum applications as part of its industrial strategy. This funding aims to enhance drug development and carbon capture technologies.

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Despite these efforts, critics argue that the UK’s current quantum strategy is insufficient. The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change has called for tax incentives for firms investing in quantum technologies and a more robust infrastructure to support the burgeoning sector. The report warns that without decisive action, the UK risks falling behind in a field that will shape the future of global technology and national security.

‘History Won’t Forgive Us’ if We Fall Behind on Quantum Computing, Say Blair And Hague

• “But history will not forgive us if we fumble the chance to lead in a transformative technology.” — Tony Blair, Former Prime Minister

‘History Won’t Forgive Us’ if We Fall Behind on Quantum Computing, Say Blair And Hague

• “In their joint foreword, Tony Blair and Lord Hague say: “Quantum represents the next key stage of the technology revolution.” — Tony Blair and William Hague, Co-authors of the report

‘History Won’t Forgive Us’ if We Fall Behind on Quantum Computing, Say Blair And Hague

As the UK navigates this critical juncture, the focus will be on implementing the proposed national strategy and fostering international partnerships. The upcoming years will be pivotal in determining whether the UK can secure its position as a leader in quantum computing or risk becoming dependent on foreign technology.

‘History Won’t Forgive Us’ if We Fall Behind on Quantum Computing, Say Blair And Hague