A perfect marriage: Industrial Strategy wedded to AI & tech

28 Nov 2017 02:55 PM

The Government's Industrial Strategy White Paper, puts tech at its very core says techUK Deputy CEO, Antony Walker.

Commenting on the launch of the Government’s Industrial Strategy White Paper, techUK Deputy CEO, Antony Walker, said:

“This is an industrial strategy with digital technology at its very core. The Government is right to stress that the success of every industrial sector and every business in the UK will depend upon their approach to digital innovation. Digital tech is the golden thread that runs throughout the White Paper including every sector deal.

"techUK strongly welcomes the new sector deal for AI. The UK is an acknowledged world leader in AI but needs to work hard to stay at the forefront of a technology that will shape the future for everyone. The commitment to opening up UK data to make us the best understood economy in the world is truly transformational, as is the Ministerial Review of Govtech that can help transform our public services including health and social care.

“There is still plenty to do, including supporting those millions of small businesses not yet taking advantage of basic tech. Companies can’t take advantage of AI until they have built their basic digital foundations – we would like to see a digital readiness index to measure progress in building these foundations. However, this White Paper shows a clear commitment from Government to prepare for and embrace the future. Given the challenges that lie ahead for the UK economy post-Brexit, there is a clear need to commit to the long-term. This White Paper is a great start.”