On Monday 5th December the Secretary of State for Wales, David TC Davies MP, was welcomed to the Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult’s Innovation Centre in Newport. It was the first visit to the Innovation Centre for the Secretary of State, who was given a tour around the Catapult’s state-of-the-art laboratories and office space.
The visit follows the announcement in the UK Government’s Autumn Statement of a 35% increase in funding for Catapults over the next five years, totalling £1.6 billion.
During the visit, the Secretary of State was keen to learn more about the work of the CSA Catapult, its role in supporting the development of electric vehicles, future telecom networks and building a skilled, diverse workforce in the UK.
CSA Catapult CEO Martin McHugh said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Secretary of State to the Innovation Centre and demonstrate the important role the Catapult is playing within the compound semiconductor cluster in South Wales and across the UK. Together with our partners in the cluster, we are enabling key technology which will allow the UK to increase trade globally in critical sectors such as 5G communications and electric vehicles.”
Secretary of State for Wales David TC Davies MP said: “I was delighted to meet the talented staff at the CSA Catapult and hear about the hugely exciting work that is being done in this state-of-the-art facility.
“It’s great to see UK Government funding supporting cutting edge technology, helping to create highly skilled and well-paid jobs, and ensuring that southeast Wales is at the forefront of this emerging industry.”
CEO of Innovate UK Indro Mukerjee said: “Innovate UK is committed to supporting growth and increased productivity across the UK and the investment in the Catapults is an important part of that commitment. The CSA Catapult has strong capabilities which are relevant to both the development of important market sectors in the UK as well as strengthening our capability in semiconductor technology.”
