The IPT continued its programme of Industry Visits following the 2024 General Election and Conference recess with a visit to Viasat in Moorgate, London. These visits are open to parliamentarians of all parties and both houses who have an interest in the sector and topics that will be covered during the visit.

On 14 November, we were delighted to take a cross-party delegation of parliamentarians to Viasat in London. The delegation consisted of Steve Race MP, Luke Taylor MP, and Baroness Hodgson of Abinger.  

Viasat is a global leader in satellite communications, and the UK’s largest space company, with its international headquarters in London. It employs over 1,200 people in the UK, contributing to high-skilled job creation, export opportunities, and industrial resilience.

The visit began with a board room discussion about the work of Viasat. This covered the work of Viasat as a strategic partner to HMG, providing cutting-edge technologies, and government services. They discussed their UK investment plans and R&D spending. This then opened to a Q&A where attendees got to participate and find out about their interests.

Following this, we toured their HQ to see the satellite control room and operations room. Then a virtual demonstration showed attendees where their satellites are placed, the coverage they provide for connectivity, and the future satellites that are due to be launched.

We would like to thank all attendees for joining the visit, and to Viasat for their time and effort in hosting the visit.