I would have thought the electrical systems of those first UK computers would have been the downfall. I have found the Italians' are great for self rust inhibiting (oil leaks, Agusta). All kidding and references to British cars and motorcycles aside, the Brits have a rich history in innovation. A few military innovations come to mind, radar, angled carrier decks, steel carrier decks, tanks (think M1A1 type)...

Thanks for the history on early computers.