Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what her Department's policy is on investment from UK investors in (a) the production of (i) semiconductors and (ii) microelectronics, (b) quantum information technologies and (c) artificial intelligence sectors in China; and what (A) statutory provisions apply to and (B) guidance her Department has issued on such investment.

As per the Atlantic Declaration, the UK and US have a shared objective in preventing our companies’ capital and expertise from fuelling technological advances that will enhance the military and intelligence capabilities of countries of concern. DBT, alongside other relevant departments, is assessing the potential national security risks to the UK posed by Outward Direct Investment, including within subsets of emerging technology. We have engaged with industry and posted guidance on GOV.UK

The Integrated Review 2023 is clear that the UK government supports a positive trade and investment relationship with China, where it is consistent with our interests, values, and national security.