Tag Archives: Tony

Tony Blair Warns: “History Won’t Forgive Us” if Britain Lags in the Quantum Computing Race

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Prime Minister Tony Blair asserted that “history will not permit” Britain to lag behind in the quantum computing race. This advanced technology is anticipated to ignite a new era of innovations across various fields, from pharmaceutical development to climate analysis.

“The United Kingdom risks losing its edge in quantum research,” cautioned the former Labor prime minister at the Tony Blair Institute, a think tank supported by tech industry veterans such as Oracle founder Larry Ellison.

In a report advocating for a national quantum computing strategy, Mr. Blair and former Conservative leader William Hague drew parallels between the current situation and the evolution of artificial intelligence. While the UK made significant contributions to AI research, it has since surrendered its leadership to other nations, particularly the US, which has triggered a race to develop “sovereign” AI capabilities.

“As demonstrated with AI, a robust R&D foundation alone is insufficient; countries with the necessary infrastructure and capital will capture the economic and strategic advantages of such technologies,” they noted. “While the UK boasts the second-largest number of quantum start-ups globally, it lacks the high-risk investment and infrastructure essential for scaling these ventures.”

Quantum computing operates in unusual and fascinating ways that contrast sharply with classical computing. Traditional computers process information through transistors that switch on or off, representing 1s and 0s. However, in quantum mechanics, entities can exist in multiple states simultaneously, thanks to a phenomenon called quantum superposition, which allows transistors to be in an on and off state concurrently.

This leads to a dramatic boost in computational capabilities, enabling a single quantum computer to perform tasks that would typically require billions of the most advanced supercomputers. Although this field is not yet mature enough for widespread application, the potential for simulating molecular structures to develop new materials and pharmaceuticals is vast. The true value of quantum computing lies in its practical delivery. Estimations suggest that industries such as chemicals, life sciences, automotive, and finance could represent about $1.3 trillion.

There are increasing fears that extraordinarily powerful quantum machines could decipher all encryption and pose serious risks to national security.

Prime Ministers Blair and Hague remarked: “The quantum era is upon us, whether Britain chooses to lead or not.” They added, “History will not excuse us if we squander yet another opportunity to excel in groundbreaking technology.”

This alert follows the recent recognition of British, Cambridge-educated John Clarke, who received the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics for his contributions to quantum computing, alongside the continued growth of UK quantum firms supported by US companies.

In June, the Oxford University spinout Oxford Ionics was acquired by US company IonQ for $1.1 billion. Meanwhile, Cyclantum, a spinout from the University of Bristol and Imperial College London, primarily thrived in California, discovering that its most enthusiastic investors were located there, where it developed its first large-scale quantum computer. These advancements can be made in Brisbane, Australia.

A report from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change critiques the UK’s current quantum approach, highlighting that both China and the US are “ahead of the game,” with countries like Germany, Australia, Finland, and the Netherlands also surpassing the UK.

A government representative stated: “Quantum technology has the potential to revolutionize sectors ranging from healthcare to affordable clean energy. The UK currently ranks second globally for quantum investment and possesses leading capabilities in supply chains such as photonics, yet we are resolute in pushing forward.”

They continued: “We have committed to a groundbreaking 10-year funding strategy for the National Quantum Computing Center and will plan other aspects of the national program in due course.”

In June, the Labor party unveiled a £670 million initiative to expedite the application of quantum computing, as part of an industrial strategy aimed at developing new treatments for untreatable diseases and enhancing carbon capture technologies.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Tony Blair and Nick Clegg Host Dinner to Connect Tech Leaders with UK Ministers

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Earlier this year, Tony Blair and Nick Clegg organized a private dinner where a group of technology entrepreneurs had the opportunity to meet influential ministers, as revealed by official documents.

As a long-time supporter of the tech industry, the former prime minister hosted this dinner at a high-end hotel in London, representing the Tony Blair Institute (TBI) political consultancy.

Together with former deputy prime minister Mr. Clegg, who was a senior executive at Meta at the time, they invited leaders from six tech firms, including Poppy Gustafsson, the government’s investment minister tasked with encouraging businesses to invest in the UK.

Mr. Blair is a passionate advocate for the transformative potential of technology in public services and has actively sought partnerships with industry leaders. His consultancy has produced several policy papers that advocate for placing artificial intelligence at the core of government initiatives.

However, some critics express concerns that Prime Minister Blair, known for his close ties to Keir Starmer’s administration, has been able to influence the agenda without adequate public oversight. There are also questions surrounding the reliance of Blair’s consultancy on significant contributions from Silicon Valley’s billionaire Larry Ellison, an acquaintance of Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

Mr. Ellison, who briefly claimed the title of the world’s richest person this year, has donated or committed over $300 million to Mr. Blair’s consultancy.

Documents obtained by the Guardian through freedom of information laws reveal that 12 attendees discussed the government’s evolving stand on artificial intelligence at a gathering deemed a “salon dinner.”

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The dinner took place at the luxurious Corinthia Hotel in late January and featured Ron Jaffe, managing director of Insight Partners, a US venture capital firm investing in tech companies.

Also present was Alex Kendall, CEO of Wave, focused on self-driving cars, along with Nigel Thune, head of Graphcore, a computer chip manufacturer, and Mark Warner, CEO of Faculty AI, who last year collaborated with TBI to produce a document on leveraging AI to enhance public services.

A representative for Mr. Clegg noted, “During his tenure at Meta, Nick Clegg frequently interacted with government ministers and other tech CEOs, which is standard for his role in policy and global affairs.”

According to a TBI spokesperson, “The event featured discussions with ministers about various issues among tech leaders. No companies were charged to attend.”

Companies that participated asserted they do not contribute to or employ TBI.

This dinner illustrates how Prime Minister Blair’s consultancy is advancing pro-technology policies. The rapidly growing TBI is active in 45 countries and employs over 900 staff members. Its most recent financial statement reported revenues of $145 million in 2022 from advisory services and donations, although many donors and clients remain undisclosed.

The consultancy faces criticism for potentially allowing donor interests to influence its policy positions, a claim it disputes. It has also been criticized for continuing financial ties with Saudi Arabia following the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. Blair is anticipated to play a significant role in the reconstruction of Gaza following the war.

Weeks prior to the dinner, the government confidentially provided an outline of an AI action plan to TBI shortly before it was set to be publicly released. On January 9, Ferial Clark, then Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), made this request at the prompting of TBI’s Director of Science Policy, Jacob Mokander.

The following day, an aide to Mr. Clark reached out to Mr. Mokander stating, “It was a pleasure speaking with you. As a follow-up, here’s the top-secret action plan summary. Thank you for expanding the plan through your networks and supportive quotes on Monday.” Mr. Mokander replied, “Thanks for sharing the action plan (confidentiality).” Blair endorsed the action plan on January 13, which aims to bolster the UK’s role in AI development and deployment.

When asked why this document was shared with TBI so early, a DSIT spokesperson stated, “We cannot apologize for our regular engagement with stakeholders. It’s standard to share embargoed information with them ahead of publication.”

A spokesperson for TBI remarked, “It’s typical for governments to consult experts and engage various stakeholders when crafting policy. As indicated in the footnotes, the AI Opportunity Action Plan accurately references our published work.”

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More Britons View AI as an Economic Threat Instead of an Opportunity, Tony Blair’s Think Tank Finds

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A think tank associated with Tony Blair suggests that the public perceives artificial intelligence more as an economic threat rather than a benefit.

The Tony Blair Institute cautioned that these poll findings could jeopardize Keir Starmer’s vision for the UK to become an AI “superpower,” urging the government to persuade the populace about the positive impacts of this technology.

According to a survey conducted by TBI, 38% of Britons see AI as a potential economic risk, while only 20% regard it as an opportunity. The survey, which included over 3,700 adults, also revealed that a lack of trust is the primary barrier to AI adoption.

Jakob Mökander, the director of science and technology policy at TBI, stated that the UK’s primary path to becoming an AI superpower lies in adopting cutting-edge technology. He expressed concerns that the current poll results jeopardize this aspiration.

Mökander noted, “A nation can achieve AI superpower status either by leading in development or by being a frontrunner in adoption.” He acknowledged that while the UK will not lead in development—domains dominated by the US and China—it can excel in adoption. However, he emphasized that without fostering public trust in technology, this goal is unattainable.

The UK government has identified AI as a cornerstone of its economic growth strategy, aiming for the country to become “one of the great AI superpowers” in the near future.

Nonetheless, there is considerable voter concern regarding the economic ramifications and job implications associated with AI. Entities such as TBI, the International Monetary Fund, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development predict that AI—defined as systems that can undertake tasks typically requiring human intelligence—will profoundly affect the labor market. TBI estimates that AI may lead to a shift of between 1 million and 3 million private sector jobs in the UK, although they anticipate that the total job loss will be mitigated as technology creates new positions.

Meanwhile, recruitment agencies have indicated that sectors expected to be influenced by AI, like graduate recruitment, have not yet experienced significant changes attributable to AI.

Furthermore, TBI’s polling indicates a divide between AI users and non-users, revealing that more than half of those unacquainted with the technology perceive it as a risk. In contrast, only a quarter of those who regularly use AI regard it as a threat.

Mökander stated that there is a pressing need to articulate potential benefits, like establishing AI reliability through regulations, shortening NHS wait times, and allowing individuals more family time.

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Regarding the need for regulations akin to those for vaccines, Mökander emphasized educating the public and promoting positive campaigns to cultivate healthy perceptions.

The TBI has garnered significant funding from tech magnate Larry Ellison and released findings indicating the advantageous applications of AI. The report suggests measuring AI’s beneficial impact accurately and promoting responsible regulations to foster AI skill development.

A spokesperson for the UK government stated that public trust is vital for effective AI utilization and highlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing AI skills and recruitment.

“With approximately 10 million workers projected to use AI in their daily roles by 2035, it is crucial that the workforce is equipped with both the skills and confidence to engage with this technology,” the spokesperson remarked.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 & 4 Review: A Totally Rad Skateboarding Time Capsule | Games

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It’s almost amusing how effortlessly this remake of skateboarding games taps into my millennial nostalgia. The moment Ace shows up in the skater montage on the title screen, I’m transported back to the early 2000s, reliving memories of playing Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games in the messy bedrooms of teenage boys. Over two decades later, I can practically smell the lingering scent of Lynx Body Spray.

In 2020, the initial titles from Tony Hawk received a refined release driven by the resurgence of Y2K nostalgia. These games are combined into one package featuring refined controls and a refreshed aesthetic that preserves the original’s gritty vibe, a sentiment echoed in the releases of 3 and 4. Levels, skaters, and parks from the 2001 THPS3 and 2002 THPS4 are all included, alongside new faces from the sport, such as Riley Hawk.




“You can connect unconventional and dangerous combos.” Photo: Activision

I vividly recall these locations—factories, university campuses, snowy Canadian skate parks, and time capsules nestled in central London. Curiously, the zoo level features empty animal exhibits (why?), but otherwise, these tightly packed urban obstacle courses are quite familiar. (Sadly, the Skaterpunk soundtrack is not what it used to be—there are numerous omissions and disappointments, although some new tracks do help to soften the blow.) Between grabs, spins, flips, and manuals, you can string together wild and daring combos across the maps, discovering hidden semi-pipes amongst power lines and walls.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/J3nZ1FKLwHU?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 – Official Launch Trailer| Xbox Games Showcase 2025" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="




Check out the trailer for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4

I have to admit, it’s not easy. My initial hours in these games were quite the experience. I struggled with the controller, falling over repeatedly as I tried to hit the minimum score during the two-minute runs. Have I always been this bad at these games? Regardless of my past muscle memory, I’m slowly piecing together my virtual skating abilities. There are now more complex movements and lateral tricks, making it feel like a more arcade-like experience compared to Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2, serving as a solid entry point for new players.

Like any real sport, it requires patience and practice: once the combos started flowing after several hours, it felt like a true release. I still don’t believe there’s a better skating game than the classic Tony Hawk.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 will be available on July 11th, priced at £39.99.

Source: www.theguardian.com

How Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Soundtrack Transformed My Musical Taste: A Band’s Reflection

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WIn the late ’90s and early 2000s, countless parents purchased Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater for their kids, unaware of the profound influence it would have on their musical tastes. From Bad Religion to Papa Roach and Millencolin, these games became the ultimate compilation albums, mirroring the failed spins and grinds their players experienced.

While FIFA games are known for their licensed soundtracks, they often feel detached. In contrast, the Pro Skater soundtrack felt like a raw, handmade mixtape, soaked in sweat and nostalgia from countless sessions at the local skatepark.

“Most bands were picked because they came from the skate scene. Even the hip-hop from the original punk era, which dominated the skate culture in the ’80s and ’90s, led to a realization: ‘I never thought I’d be a tastemaker, but my loyalty to the culture shaped that role,'” remarked one artist.

“Tony was deeply involved in punk rock,” shares Chris DeMakes from Less Than Jake before their performance at this year’s Slam Dunk Festival. “Ultimately, he had to approve the bands for the soundtrack, which reassured me,” added Roger Lima from the same band: “Skating and music culture are so intertwined; it makes sense for there to be a truly authentic soundtrack.”

The influence of these games on participating bands has been unparalleled. “I recall playing previous iterations of THPS and dreaming about a chance to be featured,” shares AFI bassist Hunter Burgan. “Yet, we didn’t fully grasp the immense impact it would have long after we’d been on the soundtrack. I can’t tell you how many people have approached me over the last two decades saying THPS3 introduced them to AFI.”




“Tony had to approve the band on his soundtrack, so I felt better about it” … Less Than Jake. Photo: Piers Allardyce/Rex/Shutterstock

“Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater made me realize that all my closest friends were metalheads,” Demakes reflects. “I spoke with John Feldman of Goldfinger, and even though Superman wasn’t a worldwide hit, it became a breakthrough for them through the game.”

When the first Tony Hawk Pro Skater launched in 1999, those grey PlayStation discs served as vehicles for punk rock, introducing the genre to countless unsuspecting youth. Now, 25 years later, new artists are featured alongside the bands that originally shaped the game’s sound.

“These games have drastically shifted my musical preferences!” expresses Sammy Ciaramitaro, vocalist for hardcore band Drain. “They brought punk and a wealth of other incredible music to my childhood room.” Drain is one of the newer artists included in the soundtrack of the remake. “Our inclusion signifies the evolution of hardcore,” he adds. “We feel privileged to join forces with Turnstile and hope young players discover our music while gaming.”

Other bands like Ataris, which weren’t on Tony’s radar back then, dreamed of being featured in future installations. “We’ve matured alongside the Pro Skater franchise,” says bassist Mike Davenport. “During our rise in the late ’90s, we felt honored when our track ‘All Souls Day’ made it to the 2020 Pro Skater 1+2 remake.”

Davenport recalls moments from their tour: “On our tour bus, we were playing Pro Skater when our driver yelled, ‘Look outside!’ Suddenly, the TV flew towards us, and we instinctively swatted it away. Unfortunately, the TV and PlayStation perished, but we were spared.”




Davey Havok performed at AFI in 2007. Photo: Reuters/Aramie

After joining the franchise in 2002, Jake feels a sense of pride returning to the Pro Skater series decades later for the remake. “We’ve been around for 33 years, and it’s great to be invited to video games.”

“As long as there are gamers, there will be opportunities to connect them with music,” remarks Burgan.

This legacy of the Pro Skater soundtrack continues to resonate. There’s even a cover band dedicated to performing it live. “When they followed us on social media, I was shocked. I never thought he would actually perform on stage with us,” says one band member.

In a viral Instagram moment, Tony Hawk surprised the audience at the 900 in East London, joining Agent Orange and Goldfinger for a frenzied performance. “We’ll always be grateful for him showing up, especially since he appreciates bands covering songs from his game,” says Shaw.




“I can’t sing every song” … Tony Hawk at the 900 in London in 2022. Photo: Doug Young

“Five bands from the video game series have only performed covers,” Hawk stated. “My surprise appearance was a thrill. I’m proud of the soundtrack, but I can’t sing every song or recall the lyrics!”

Since the original Pro Skater, its soundtrack has continuously benefitted the featured bands. “I met Tony at a music festival recently,” shares Burgan from AFI. “His passion for music makes being part of THPS even more special.”

While the Pro Skater franchise solidified its legacy, Jake reflects on how easily it could have gone the other way.

“Imagine creating a product that missed the mark,” he chuckles. “But in Tony’s case, he had a fantastic game that kids embraced wholeheartedly.”

“Pro skater games might not have made an immediate impact,” Lima acknowledges. “But every aspect was effortlessly cool, monumental for us… we’ve lost count of how many times fans mentioned it. Check the comments on YouTube and you’ll see. Many haven’t heard of us until now.”

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is available now.

Source: www.theguardian.com