THE FUTURE is bright for an Oxfordshire space vehicle technology company.

That was the view of Jo Johnson, now transport minster but previously universities and space minister, speaking in parliament this week.

Henley MP, John Howell, raised the work of Reaction Engines, based at Culham Science Centre, during a debate about the Government's Space Industry Bill.

The company is pioneering the next generation of space access propulsion.

Mr Johnson said: "Reaction Engines is a great example of the kind of British company that is well placed to take advantage of all the opportunities that the Bill will enable."