Last week, Eddie Hughes, MP for Walsall North, visited the Quantum Technology Hub for Sensors and Metrology to learn about how differing technologies can potentially link together, and help improve day to day life for people.
The visit, which took place on 13th February, comprised of meetings with the Director, Professor Kai Bongs, and Business Director Dr Simon Bennett, where they discussed the role of public policy in quantum technology, and how the Government could help further in raising the UK’s profile as a world leader in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This is a time when technology will be embedded within society and even in the body, specifically in robotics, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, 3D printing and biotechnology.
Eddie also visited the Artificial Intelligence in the School of Computer Science with Director Professor Andrew Howes. He also explored the subject of blockchain with Senior Lecturer in Computer Security, Dr David Galindo.
Born in Birmingham as the son of a bus driver, Eddie went to school in north Birmingham before studying Civil Engineering at the University of Glamorgan.
He has been a Walsall Councillor since 1999, and was elected Member of Parliament for Walsall North on 9th June 2017. He has held several positions on the council, including on the decision-making cabinet, chairman of Children’s Services Scrutiny and Audit Committees.
Eddie was also previously deputy chief executive of a local charity which provides accommodation for young people and a trustee of the Walsall Wood Allotment Charity, which aims to help people in financial need across the borough of Walsall.