New legal powers could send British scientists into space for medical research

New legal powers outlined Monday will send British scientists into space to conduct zero-gravity medical experiments.

Under new powers being unveiled this week by the British government scientists will be able to fly to the edge of space to conduct vital medical experiments.

A government spokesman said new laws paving the way for spaceports in Britain will allow experiments to be conducted in zero gravity which could help develop medicines.

The powers will allow the launch of satellites from Britain for the first time, horizontal flights to the edge of space for scientific research and the establishment and operation of spaceports in regions across the country.

Government Aviation Minister Lord Ahmad said: "We have never launched a spaceflight before from Britain. Our ambition is to allow for safe and competitive access to space from the UK, so we remain at the forefront of a new commercial space age, for the next 40 years."

The government believes the sector is vital to the future of the British economy, able to create high-value jobs and generating wealth across the country. Endit