As the UK government announces that hundreds of well-paid, highly skilled tech jobs will be created across the country, Steven George-Hilley of global tech specialist Centropy PR discusses how politicians and policy makers can unleash Britain’s true tech potential.
Labour have been in office for nearly a year now, are they delivering for the tech industry?
Despite tumbling poll ratings and major controversies over their handling of the economy, international aid and welfare, I’m happy to say that the government’s approach to AI and tech has been refreshingly optimistic.
This is in a large part due to the expertise of the party’s ministerial team in the areas of science and technology. Our agency regularly hosts policy breakfasts and lunches with key figures in the science and tech team, and so far, we’ve been very impressed by what we’ve seen.
As AI and Digital Government Minister Feryal Clark MP has been very good at getting to know the technology community and this really counts. Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology Peter Kyle is also a very smart guy, full of energy and on top of his brief.
Recent data suggests the graduate jobs market is suffering due to AI, what message do you have for those looking for a job in London?
Let’s not sugarcoat things, it’s a rubbish time for young people in the capital. They have the odds stacked against them on so many levels, with a greatly reduced pool of jobs to apply for.
What I can say that is that whilst AI is shaking things up, it is also opening doors and creating new opportunities.
For those with the right specialist skills, such as computer science and tech qualifications, there are numerous avenues for career progression.
What steps is the government taking to upskill the nation?
The UK government is also firmly behind driving investment in the country’s tech capabilities. Recent announcements include a £86 billion commitment to funding for R&D as well as a new £25 million scheme to bring elite AI experts to the UK.
Ministers also recently announced £187 million for new schemes to train up future workforces to support economic growth. Whilst these remain very tough times for the next generation, the overall signals are that a brighter tech future awaits.
Steven George-Hilley is co-founder at global tech and fintech communications company Centropy PR
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