Rachel Reeves

Chancellor Rachel Reeves today confirmed £750 million in funding to build the UK’s new national supercomputer at the University of Edinburgh, which she said would strengthen Britain as an AI-maker and research power.

Labour had controversially scrapped plans for the supercomputer shortly after coming to power last summer.

Ms Reeves recommitted to the project in today’s Spending Review, describing it as an investment in “Scotland’s renewal”.

Peter Kyle, the UK’s secretary of state for science, innovation and technology, said: “From the shipyards of the Clyde to developments in steam engine technology, Scottish trailblazers were central to the industrial revolution – so the next great industrial leap through AI and technology should be no different.  

“Basing the UK’s most powerful supercomputer in Edinburgh, Scotland will now be a major player in driving forward the next breakthroughs that put our Plan for Change into action.”

Ms Reeves said: “We are investing in Scotland’s renewal, so working people are better off. 

“Strong investment in our science and technology sector is part of our Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth, and as the home of the UK’s largest supercomputer, Scotland will be an integral part of that journey.”

Ian Murray, the Scotland secretary, added: “This is a landmark moment and will place Scotland at the forefront of the UK’s technological revolution. The £750 million investment in Edinburgh’s new supercomputer places Scotland at the cutting edge of computing power globally.

“This will see Scotland playing a leading role in creating breakthroughs that have a global benefit – such as new medicines, health advances, and climate change solutions.

“This is the Plan for Change – delivering real opportunities and economic growth for communities across Scotland.”

The new supercomputer will vastly exceed the capacity of the UK’s current national supercomputer, ARCHER2.

Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Edinburgh, said: “This significant investment will have a profoundly positive impact on the UK’s global standing, and we welcome the vast opportunities it will create for research and innovation.

“Building on the University of Edinburgh’s expertise and experience over decades, this powerful supercomputer will drive economic growth by supporting advancements in medicine, bolstering emerging industries and public services, and unlocking the full potential of AI.

“We look forward to working alongside the UK government and other partners to deliver this critical national resource.”