WIREDGOV

Chancellor's Budget outlines key commitments to lifelong learning, investment in high-tech, and creating a stronger, fairer global Britain.

Responding to the Chancellor’s Budget 2017, Charlotte Holloway, Policy Director at techUK commented:

“Today’s budget shows a consistent approach from the Chancellor, laying solid foundations for what will be an uncertain period ahead.  The digital sector is the fastest-growing part of the UK economy and today’s Budget will provide tech companies with reassurance that the Chancellor understands that their success is critical for a truly Global Britain.

“There were a number of welcome new funding announcements to ensure Britain is at the forefront of the global technology revolution. The £270m new commitment to developments in areas such as biotech, robotics and driverless cars is welcome. Similarly, the £16m for a 5G hub and £200m for local authorities to stimulate private investment in fibre networks for world class digital connectivity should be applauded.

"The Chancellor deserves particular praise for his efforts to create a culture of retraining in the UK. The new £40m for the Department for Education for lifelong learning pilots will help the UK’s workers retrain for the jobs of the future. On the day techUK launches our own Returners Hub, the focus on returnship programmes is welcome, particularly as techUK has called for initiatives that will make it easier for women to return to tech careers after a career break.  The UK long had a chronic problem developing home-grown experts in STEM subjects so the £300m for 1000 new PhDs and fellowships is vitally important.

“The tech sector will await further detail on the proposed review into business rates for online companies. It is key that this process begins with an open and evidence-based dialogue with industry, keeping front of mind the role that online technologies play in driving digital growth for SMEs.”