2013-03-07 08:07:06 -

Cardiff, UK, 07 March 2013: IQE plc (AIM: IQE, "IQE" or the "Group"), the
leading global supplier of advanced semiconductor wafer products and services to
the semiconductor industry, announces that IQE's CEO and President, Dr Drew
Nelson, has joined a high-level industry group to advise the European Commission
(EC) on the implementation of Key Enabling Technologies (KETs).

The formation of the group was announced by Vice Commissioner Antonio Tajani
last week, together with the signing of an MOU between the European Investment
Bank and the EC to support KETs. Dr Nelson is the only UK representative amongst
the group of 35 industrial leaders from across Europe.

The EC has identified nanotechnology, micro-/nanoelectronics, industrial
biotechnology, advanced materials, photonics and advanced manufacturing
technologies as KETs that are essential for Europe to regain and   maintain a
global leadership in the face of intense competition from Asia and North
America.

The impact of KETs cuts across world leading industries including the
automotive, chemicals, aeronautics, space, health and energy sectors and, as
such, will form a significant focus for European funded programmes over the
coming years. This will enable the EU to translate its dominant research and
development (R&D) base into the production of goods and services needed to
stimulate growth and employment.

Dr Drew Nelson, President and CEO of IQE Group, said:

"It is highly encouraging that the EC has recognised the global importance of
Key Enabling Technologies in shaping the future of Europe in the face of stiff
global competition. EC initiatives included in 'Horizon 2020' aim to bridge the
funding gap - often referred to as the 'valley of death' - that has held back EU
countries from translating excellent R&D expertise into world leading products
and services.

"I am delighted to accept the invitation to join this high level group as the
only UK representative and look forward to helping Europe regain a global
leading technology position."

The EC press release is available at:  europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-
13-150_en.htm




CONTACTS:

IQE plc (+44 29 2083 9400)
Chris Meadows
Drew Nelson




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