On January 29, 2024, the United Kingdom’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) convened the inaugural meeting of the Responsible Quantum Industry Forum (RQIF), with UKQuantum and techUK serving as industry co-chairs. The forum’s objective is to co-develop and embed shared principles for responsible quantum technologies and to support organizations in putting those principles into practice, according to the NQCC.
The first in-person meeting, held at techUK’s London office, focused on establishing a working draft of responsible quantum principles. The forum was designed to meet quarterly, with an initial in-person session followed by subsequent virtual meetings. A webinar briefing was held on January 15, 2024, ahead of the inaugural meeting.
The RQIF’s launch reflects the emphasis on responsible innovation within the UK’s National Quantum Strategy. By November 2024, the forum had grown to over 40 members and published a set of shared principles centered on transparency, accountability, equitability, security, safety, and privacy. The UK government’s response to the Regulatory Horizons Council report on regulating quantum technology applications recognized the RQIF as a key enabler for responsible innovation in the sector.