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Reflections on Johnson’s tenure for tech – and what the next PM must do

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has resigned - looking back on his tech tenure.
Image credit: Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street

As the curtain falls on Boris Johnson’s eventful premiership, it presents an opportune moment for the UK tech sector to reflect on the successes and shortfalls of his government when it comes to technology and innovation.

As prime minister, Johnson has been a passionate optimist and diligent advocate for UK tech. Cultivating partnerships with emerging hubs like India has produced promising prospects for UK tech in new markets, while initiatives like the International Tech Hub Network have established the UK as a leader in fostering innovation in emerging ecosystems in collaboration with UK tech.

Earlier this year, Johnson’s government announced a new Digital Skills Council to address the workforce crisis the UK faces. According to the government, 80% of jobs now require digital skills, and experts estimate that the failure to meet this demand for digital knowhow costs the UK economy £63bn in potential GDP....