Investment in science, and research and development is key for the UK to reap the rewards of future technologies, Tim Peake has said.

The British astronaut said the Government is recognising how important it is to invest in the sector, but there is always more that can be done.

Major Peake said the benefits are seen in education, industry and business.

He added: "Actually, in terms of space industry, we've gone from strength to strength and are hoping to continue to do so.

"So, it is becoming more of a focus, and also the other point on this is things such as climate and technology are also coming to the forefront more than ever before.

"I think that slowly the governments are realising what our future is - whether it's around autonomous vehicles, whether it's around quantum computing, artificial intelligence, potential future energy sources such as nuclear fusion - if we don't invest in R&D then we're not going to reap the rewards of what potential that has to offer us in the future.

"And I think slowly that the Government is realising that and starting to invest a more appropriate amount."