By contrast, quantum computers allow quantum information to be represented in multiple states at once – meaning it can be both ‘on’ and ‘off’ at the same time, allowing them to tackle complex problems in much less time. This means they have the potential to solve complex computational problems in seconds, minutes, or hours—tasks that would take today’s supercomputers years, decades, or even millennia, if they could solve them at all.

Speaking at the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) annual meeting in Edinburgh earlier this week, Lord Vallance set out how the government is committed to supporting quantum companies to scale up, driving innovation that will fuel economic growth, strengthen the NHS, and position the UK as a clean energy leader. He also discussed how the UK’s commitment to working with other countries on global standards is helping to speed up innovation.