A report by technology entrepreneur Hermann Hauser has called for a long-term expansion of the Government’s Catapult network.

Under his proposals, one or two technology and innovation centres would be created each year. There are currently seven Catapult centres across the country, with a further two due to open next year. Each is focused on a specific area of technology and expertise, such as offshore renewable energy or high-value manufacturing.

The Government’s aim is to bring together the best people in their fields with cutting-edge facilities, to help businesses develop new products and services.

In a report published at the recent Innovate 2014 conference in London, Mr Hauser recommended sustained investment in the existing Catapults, more-effective engagement with small business and “a more-coherent model” for working with universities.

His original 2010 report to ministers recommended the creation of UK technology and innovation centres, resulting in the Catapult network.

He said: “I have been surprised by the progress made and impressed by the quality of the people and facilities in the emerging network. The UK is playing ‘catch-up’ with the best innovation systems in the world in translational infrastructure, so I was very encouraged to see how rapidly we are closing the gap.”

Speaking at Innovate 2014, Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “Innovation without commercialisation is like a car without an engine. While the Catapult Network has been a success story for British innovation, taking our world-leading capabilities in areas like high-value manufacturing and satellite applications to new levels, I want to make sure that we are getting enough ‘bang for our buck’. That's why I asked Hermann Hauser to conduct this follow-up review.”