Quantum computing crackdown watered down by ministers

A crackdown on exports of British quantum computer technology has been watered down by ministers after warnings that it could lead to UK-based firms fleeing overseas. The Department for Business and Trade has issued a general licence allowing quantum computer technology to be sold to dozens of countries including the US, Japan, Australia and European Union states. The licence was issued last week – days before new laws were due to come into force requiring quantum companies to obtain permission before transferring or selling any technology overseas. The crackdown, revealed by The Telegraph earlier this month, applies from Monday, and is designed to prevent quantum technology falling into the hands of hostile military powers. However, its extent blindsided the nascent industry and led to concerns that companies may be forced to move overseas to escape the regulations. One affected company said the rules would have stopped it from communicating with manufacturers based abroad or sending data to overseas subsidiaries. Quantum Motion, which has been backed by a taxpayer tech fund and last year raised the biggest ever investment round in a British quantum computing company, said overseas investors had suggested the company may have to move abroad. “I don’t think...

Read more