UK Government Absorbs Space Agency Into Science Department to Cut Costs

The UK Government will abolish the UK Space Agency as a standalone body and fold it into the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology in April 2026. Ministers say the change will cut duplication, reduce bureaucracy and allow closer ministerial oversight of space policy. Space Minister Sir Chris Bryant said integrating the 320-person agency "will bring much greater integration and focus" while preserving scientific expertise. The move follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s broader drive to slash the number of arm’s-length public bodies after similar action at NHS England earlier this year. Created in 2010, the UK Space Agency has overseen projects ranging from small-satellite launches to astronaut Tim Peake’s mission to the International Space Station. The UK space sector generates about £18.6 billion a year and employs roughly 55,000 people. Scientists and industry figures warned that dissolving the agency could disrupt programmes and erode the UK’s competitive position. Dr Simeon Barber of the Open University said the decision risks Britain "losing focus" at a time when other nations are expanding independent space agencies.