Parliamentary Reception – Monday, 10 February 2025

On Monday, 10 February, the APPG for Semiconductors hosted a high-impact Parliamentary Reception, chaired by Ruth Jones MP, bringing together industry leaders, academics, and policymakers to champion the UK’s semiconductor sector.

The event saw a strong turnout, including representatives from the APPG's dedicated Advisory Board and other key industry groups like KLA, Plessey Semiconductors, Vishay Intertechnology, CSconnected, Silicon Catalyst.UK, IQE, Oxford Instruments, Seagate Technology, and top universities.

30 MPs and Peers attended, including Alan Strickland MP and Catherine Fookes MP, whose constituencies play a key role in the semiconductor supply chain. Key figures included Lord Faulkner, Trade Envoy to Taiwan, APPG officers Matt Western MP, Gurinder Josan MP, and Chris McDonald MP, as well as Bill Esterson MP, John Goodenough (DSIT’s Semiconductors Advisory Panel), and Drew Nelson OBE (APPG Advisory Board Chair).

AI Minister Feryal Clark MP delivered a keynote speech, reinforcing the government’s commitment to the semiconductor industry and its role across the eight key growth sectors identified by the UK government..

The event featured speeches from the APPG and Advisory Board Chairs, as well as networking over canapés and drinks. Attendees explored AI-powered tools that simplified semiconductor concepts for MPs and Peers, while VR headsets provided a virtual tour of semiconductor manufacturing labs. Chip models were also on display, offering a tangible look at cutting-edge design and technology.

Why This Matters

Semiconductors power the UK’s future economy, underpinning all eight key growth sectors, from AI and quantum computing to advanced manufacturing and life sciences. The UK’s ability to lead in these fields depends on a strong and resilient semiconductor supply chain, making investment, innovation, and policy support essential. Events like this Parliamentary Reception ensure that key decision-makers understand the strategic importance of semiconductors and help drive forward an ambitious UK Semiconductor Strategy.

This reception was a milestone in raising parliamentary awareness, with growing momentum to make semiconductor policy a national priority. The APPG remains committed to advancing this agenda through future events and industry collaboration.

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