Satellites: Regulation

(asked on 2nd September 2025) - View Source

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of international regulations regarding low-Earth-orbit satellites on (1) the UK's strategic communications capabilities and (2) the resilience of UK critical national infrastructure.


Answered by
Lord Vallance of Balham Portrait
Lord Vallance of Balham
Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
This question was answered on 23rd September 2025

The Government recognises that Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications present major opportunities for the UK. International regulations governing LEO satellites directly impact our strategic communications capabilities and the resilience of critical national infrastructure.

Ofcom represents the UK at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and DSIT is working closely with departments and Ofcom to shape the UK’s position ahead of the 2027 ITU World Radio Conference, ensuring regulations reflect national policy objectives and strategic priorities.

As outlined in the Industrial Strategy, the Government aims to work with international partners to ensure evolving regulations continue to support UK strategic goals and the deployment of advanced connectivity technologies.

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