The panel will be co-chaired by Technology Minister Paul Scully, alongside former Dialog Semiconductor chief executive Dr Jalal Bagherli, and looks to boost UK semiconductor sector innovation while growing the economy.

Founding members of the panel, which plans to meet every two months from today, encompass business and technology alongside experts in venture capital, skills and research.

Leaders involved include Americo Lemos, CEO of IQE; Richard Grisenthwaite, chief architect at Arm; and Dr Eben Upton, CEO of the Raspberry Pi Foundation.

With a 20-year semiconductor sector vision in mind, three key areas are set to be explored by the panel: domestic sector growth; mitigation of supply chain disruption risks; and protection of national security.

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Serving as an essential component of almost every electronic device we use, semiconductor development and deployment will be crucial towards facilitating national innovation of cutting-edge technologies like AI and quantum computing.

“Properly engaging and listening to the experts at the heart of researching, designing and producing semiconductors is essential if we’re serious about growing our domestic sector, protecting our national security, and unleashing rapid innovation across the British economy,” said Technology Minister and Semiconductor Advisory Panel co-chair, Paul Scully.

“The Semiconductor Advisory Panel serves as the perfect way for industry and Government to work together closely on this critical industry so that we can deliver on our Semiconductor Strategy.”

Co-chair Dr Jalal Bagherli commented: “I am thrilled to be a member and co-chair of the upcoming UK Semiconductor panel, which presents a remarkable opportunity to bridge the gap between industrial executives, academia and national government.

“Each member brings a unique perspective and expertise, making it an ideal platform to collaborate with national government in shaping an effective policy for our industrial sector.”

A shift in national strategy

The UK Government announced its National Semiconductor Strategy last May, and while it was welcomed by many stakeholders following delays, it was also criticised for a lack of funding announced compared to similar investment in the US and EU.

But following the launch of the advisory panel, Tech London Advocates and Global Tech Advocates founder Russ Shaw CBE referred to the announcement as an important step in the delivery of said strategy.

“With the Advisory Panel now in place, it is time for the Government to put its foot on the pedal and accelerate its implementation,” said Shaw.

“The Semiconductor Advisory Panel contains some of the very best leaders and experts in the sector and part of their role must be to ensure that the government delivers on its promises.

“The UK still has a competitive advantage in areas such as R&D and design, but in a hugely competitive global economy others will catch-up fast.”

Related:

Google predicts £400bn AI boost for UK economy — In its report on the economic impact of AI in the UK, Google stated that R&D, computing capacity and digital skills will be keys to long-term success.