Britain pushes forward shaping commercial spaceflight policy

LONDON - The British government Tuesday announced that it is seeking evidence to shape the future policy on the liabilities, insurance and charging arrangements for commercial spaceflight.

The Space Industry Act became law on March 15, paving the way for a new era of British space innovation, exploration and investment.

The legislation will enable the first commercial space launch from UK soil in history, and British businesses will soon be able to compete in the commercial space race using UK spaceports.

The government is seeking input on liabilities provisions following parliamentary debates, according to the statement. The UK Space Agency and Department for Transport are now leading that call to help inform future policy on liabilities and on insurance and charging arrangements as well.

"We are ensuring the regulatory framework set out in the Space Industry Act leads to a safe, responsible and attractive environment for small-satellite launch and sub-orbital flight," said Dr. Graham Turnock, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency.

The British government's Industrial Strategy White Paper has already included 50 million pounds to enable new satellite launch services and low gravity spaceflights from UK spaceports.