Government Steps Up Efforts to Overcome Barriers in Clean Tech Development

In a move to accelerate the deployment of technologies, former Conservative minister Lord David Willetts has been confirmed as the first chairman of the newly established Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO)—a government body aimed at streamlining the path from innovation to market.

Launched in October, RIO is designed to ease regulatory hurdles for businesses developing next-generation products and services. Whether it’s AI-powered surgical training platforms or drones capable of delivering life-saving medicines, this initiative seeks to fast-track innovations that could reshape entire industries.

Lord Willetts said he is “honoured” to take on the role and hailed the “exciting opportunity to shape regulatory approaches that empower new technologies”.

"Lord Willetts brings the expertise and leadership experience that will be key to streamlining innovation."

Peter Kyle

But the potential impact extends even further. Officials at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) suggest that drone technology, for instance, could also be leveraged for ultra-fast delivery of consumer goods, groceries, or even industrial logistics—marking a fundamental shift in how businesses operate in the modern economy.

Lord Willetts, a seasoned political figure, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Serving as the MP for Havant from 1992 to 2015, he held multiple key positions, including paymaster general under Sir John Major and later as universities and science minister in David Cameron’s government. His tenure in these roles underscored his deep involvement in science, education, and innovation—making him a fitting choice to steer RIO’s mission.

Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Lord Willetts brings the expertise and leadership experience that will be key to streamlining innovation and unapologetically unleash the innovation that we know can improve lives.

“By shaping regulatory approaches in key sectors – from drones that could deliver everything from groceries to medicines through to AI-powered tools speeding up NHS diagnoses – the Regulatory Innovation Office will be a central thread running through this Government’s mission to improve lives, create jobs, and drive the economic growth across the country that is central to our Plan for Change.”