Astrium has welcomed the Government's response to the Space Innovation and Growth Strategy (IGS), which last month set out a 20 year plan for the UK space sector.

Government today signalled its long-term commitment to working with the satellite technology and services sector to achieve this vision, announcing a number of important 'first steps' including the creation of a UK Space Agency.

Colin Paynter, CEO, Astrium Ltd said in response to the Government's announcement: "The creation of an executive space agency for the UK is a vital first step in ensuring continued development and growth in Britain's space industry. Astrium has consistently supported this approach and with focused support from Government, our world-leading industrial and technological expertise will continue to bring increased benefits to UK plc.

"The current economic conditions clearly limit the ability of Government to invest significantly - but we see today's response to the Space Innovation and Growth Strategy as a solid foundation for the future. A strong space agency working in partnership with industry will guarantee that resources are focused on strengthening the UK's leading role in the development of space technology and applications."

The Space IGS was published in February by the Space Innovation and Growth Team (Space IGT) a joint collaboration between industry, Government, and academia and proposed a clear vision for the UK to grow its share of the expanding global space market from 6% to 10%. It also laid out a vision to create a domestic industry worth Pounds 40bn pa, supporting 100,000 new jobs by 2025.