tech
Axing UK science department risks slower policymaking, say tech leaders
Tim Bradshaw, Ashley Armstrong, Chris Smyth and Jim Pickard in London
TL;DR
- UK tech leaders are alarmed by the decision to axe the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
- They fear the move will slow down policymaking, especially concerning rapid AI advancements.
- Technology responsibilities will now fall under a beefed-up Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (DBIST).
- Public sector AI adoption and the AI Security Institute will move to the Cabinet Office, overseen by Kanishka Narayan.
- While some welcome AI's elevation to cabinet level, many tech entrepreneurs and investors worry about the industry being pushed down the government's agenda.
- Concerns exist that the reorganisation will waste time, create distractions, and potentially lead to tech talent leaving for the private sector.
- The Government Digital Service moving to another department raises fears about its potential loss of influence.