UK’s Technology Secretary Calls for Global Tech Giants to Bring Innovations and Competitive Pricing
In a significant move to modernize the United Kingdom’s public sector technology, Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has urged global tech companies to introduce their latest innovations and offer competitive pricing. Speaking at the Google Cloud Summit in London, Kyle emphasized the potential benefits for both the tech industry and the UK’s public services.
Kyle’s proactive engagement with major tech firms, including Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and Google, has been notably more extensive than his predecessor’s. Over the past six months, he has held 28 meetings with key figures in the tech sector, a 70% increase compared to previous efforts. This approach aims to foster innovation and enhance public services through strategic partnerships.
A cornerstone of this initiative is a new partnership with Google Cloud, designed to modernize the UK’s public sector technology. Currently, more than 25% of public sector tech systems rely on outdated “ball and chain” legacy technology, with some police forces and NHS trusts facing figures as high as 70%. The collaboration with Google Cloud seeks to address these inefficiencies, potentially leading to hundreds of millions of pounds in investment and reducing the estimated £21 billion spent on obsolete contracts.
Kyle highlighted the importance of this modernization, stating, “Britain will be using technology in more areas and more than ever before.” He expressed optimism about transforming essential public services through smart technology adoption, aiming to deliver value for the public and unlock innovation.
The partnership with Google Cloud is expected to bring significant advancements, including the launch of the GOV.UK app and the National Digital Marketplace, a new procurement platform for the public sector. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to integrate technology into various sectors, enhancing efficiency and service delivery.
By inviting global tech giants to bring their best ideas and technologies to the UK, Kyle envisions a future where public services are more intelligent and digital, ultimately benefiting citizens through improved services and innovation.
Source: TechRadar
Date Published: 2025-07-10
URL: https://www.techradar.com/pro/uk-technology-secretary-hits-out-at-critics-tells-tech-giants-to-bring-their-best-tech-at-the-best-price
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