On 9 October 2023, the Council on Geostrategy launches an exciting new, year-long research project entitled Caudwell Strong Britain, kindly sponsored and advised by philanthropist, business leader and Phones 4U founder John Caudwell.
This project will explore how the United Kingdom can build a more competitive, resilient, and green science and technology base, and unlock its potential for enhanced prosperity and security and help protect the environment for future generations.
It will focus on green technology, AI, quantum technology, nuclear, and space, whilst also giving a broader insight into the status of the UK’s science and technology ecosystem. It will explore areas such as infrastructure, skills, education, and funding, and how they help or hinder the UK’s capacity for science and technology.
Climate change will pose significant risks to the UK – including to human health and wellbeing, and the economy. Britain’s economy is also sluggish, and growth rates have halved since the global financial crisis.
The UK must raise its ambition and develop a bold and proactive strategy if it is to recover from its economic malaise. The UK was the first country in the world to industrialise; it must now be the first Net Zero superpower. A vision for prosperity centred on science and green technology would not only be to Britain’s strategic advantage, it would also be good for the planet.
Dr Mann Virdee, Council on Geostrategy
The UK is currently paralysed by indecision. Its approach to big decisions, such as on Net Zero and public infrastructure investment, is offputting for businesses and investors. It means that the UK is constantly prioritising short-term aims at the expense of a long-term vision. Striving to be the world’s first Net Zero superpower would provide the direction and impetus Britain needs to prosper.
With these issues in mind, the Council on Geostrategy’s project Caudwell Strong Britain will identify the strengths and weaknesses of the UK’s science and technology ecosystem and propose how it can be strengthened with new and improved infrastructure, institutions, education, and skills.
It’s long been crystal clear to me that net zero is not only essential to save the planet, it’s the best way to grow the UK economy. During lockdown, I unveiled what I called Caudwell Pandemic Recovery, a key plank of which was a massive tax-free enterprise zone to create a Silicon Valley of sustainability. I’m delighted now to collaborate with the Council on Geostrategy on this research, including solid steps as to how we go even further, with Caudwell Strong Britain.
John Caudwell
Over the course of the next year, the new project will produce an array of policy papers and articles to explain how the UK can regenerate its scientific, environmental and technological prowess.
Caudwell Strong Britain will be led by Dr Mann Virdee, Senior Research Fellow at the Council on Geostrategy. His areas of expertise are: research and innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, 5G, space science and governance, biotechnology and the life sciences, and international development.
