The UK Government’s Strategic Partnership with Google Cloud to Modernize Public Sector Technology
In a significant move to modernize the United Kingdom’s public sector, the UK government has entered into a strategic partnership with Google Cloud. This collaboration aims to phase out outdated legacy systems and enhance the efficiency and security of public services. The initiative was announced by Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, at the Google Cloud Summit London 2025.
The partnership focuses on addressing the heavy reliance on legacy technology within public institutions, which has been identified as a major source of operational inefficiencies and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. For instance, police forces in the UK have been found to depend on legacy systems for up to 70% of their operations. These outdated technologies not only hinder productivity but also pose significant risks in terms of data security and service delivery.
Peter Kyle criticized the longstanding technology contracts that have entrenched public bodies in costly and obsolete systems. He emphasized the need for a transformative approach to public sector technology, stating that the collaboration with Google Cloud represents a pivotal step toward achieving this goal. The partnership is set to involve migrating various public services to the cloud, thereby modernizing infrastructure and improving service delivery.
A key component of this modernization effort is the upskilling of civil servants. The government plans to equip up to 100,000 civil servants with advanced digital skills by 2030. This initiative aligns with the broader objective of doubling the number of digital experts within the public sector over the next decade. By investing in human capital, the government aims to ensure that its workforce is well-prepared to navigate the complexities of modern digital environments.
In addition to the partnership with Google Cloud, the UK government has introduced the National Digital Exchange (NDX). This centralized marketplace is designed to facilitate cost-effective and vetted technology procurement, potentially saving billions of pounds and stimulating growth within the UK tech sector. The NDX is expected to streamline the acquisition process for public bodies, ensuring that they have access to the most suitable and secure technologies available.
The collaboration with Google Cloud and the establishment of the NDX signify a concerted effort by the UK government to embrace digital transformation. By modernizing public sector technology, the government aims to enhance the quality and security of public services, foster innovation, and ensure that the public sector is equipped to meet the challenges of the digital age.
Source: ITPro
Date Published: 2025-07-31
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