With the potential for sweeping changes on the horizon, Labour’s victory could mark a new era for technology in the UK. If Keir Starmer wins the upcoming election, his government could utilise tech innovations to address key challenges facing the country. From unlocking government data to enhancing healthcare, tackling Big Tech, and integrating AI into government operations, these advancements promise a more efficient and progressive society.
Immediate action in these areas could bring about significant improvements in daily life, economic growth, and public services. As we explore these potential changes, it’s clear that a strategic focus on technology could pave the way for a brighter future in Britain.
Free Our Data
In March 2006, a campaign was launched to free government-owned data. The aim was to make data from agencies like the Ordnance Survey and the UK Hydrographic Office accessible to the public. The campaign had mixed success. A new norm was established, advocating for public access to government data whenever possible. However, some valuable digital infrastructure remains behind restrictive terms or expensive paywalls. The Postcode Address File is a prime example. It holds 1.8 million postcodes and nearly 30 million postal addresses, essential for navigation. Privatised along with Royal Mail, access to this data is still tightly controlled, with charges regulated by Ofcom.
Freeing our data can boost growth and eliminate everyday annoyances. For instance, the public sector’s use of non-commercial licenses restricts commercial advantage. This creates barriers for businesses unable to pay high fees for data access. The benefits of opening up this data go beyond economic growth. It simplifies everyday tasks for citizens. For example, new properties often face issues with services like e-commerce deliveries due to slow updates in free databases. A Labour government could spearhead this change, enhancing daily life by removing these inefficiencies.
Revolutionising Healthcare
NHS England is a globally respected health provider, known for its clinical excellence and pioneering research. Recent advances in pharmacology and gene therapy promise a revolution in healthcare. The development of mRNA vaccines during the Covid pandemic accelerated this progress. Gene therapy, once science fiction, is now a reality. It offers the potential to cure rare genetic conditions with personalised medicine. The dropping cost of genetic sequencing enables early diagnosis, crucial for effective treatment.
A state-led initiative could place the NHS at the forefront of this research. The NHS can take a long-term view of costs, unlike private industry. Offering free genetic testing at birth could identify and treat genetic disorders early. This not only benefits individuals but also reduces long-term healthcare costs. For example, a cure for a rare genetic condition might cost £1 million, significantly less than a lifetime of care for a disability.
Moreover, successful treatments developed in the UK can benefit the global market. Semaglutide, a drug developed by Novo Nordisk, reshaped Denmark’s economy. Similarly, innovations in gene therapy could position the UK as a leader in medical research and development.
Tackling Big Tech
The Digital Markets Unit (DMU) enforces the digital markets, competition, and consumers bill, akin to the EU’s Digital Markets Act. Labour’s first task will be to formalise instructions to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to enforce this legislation. Prioritising this in the summer is crucial. Delays in competition enforcement typically benefit Big Tech. The wording of ministerial instructions will be vital in setting the tone for future regulatory actions.
The focus of this legislation is on market fairness. Large tech companies, like Apple and Amazon, often create barriers for smaller businesses. These barriers are justified as user benefits. However, the DMU’s role is to assess these claims. A worst-case scenario might involve redistributing resources from large tech companies to smaller businesses. In the best case, it could spark a new wave of entrepreneurship, significantly boosting the tech landscape in the UK.
AI in Government
Large language models (LLMs) have advanced significantly, surpassing initial expectations. These models can enhance government operations, particularly in managing vast quantities of information. The challenge lies in integrating this technology before it becomes indispensable. Labour must strategise how and when to deploy LLMs effectively, ensuring they are ready to leverage these tools once they reach maturity.
Currently, some civil servants may already be using AI tools like ChatGPT for tasks such as proofreading emails and drafting memos. Formalising this practice can ensure safe and responsible use while making these tools accessible to a broader range of government employees. This could streamline many administrative processes.
Looking ahead, AI can assist citizens in navigating government systems. Interacting with the state often involves complex, bureaucratic processes. AI systems could simplify these interactions, helping citizens access services more easily. However, life-changing decisions should remain within human control to prevent a faceless, unapproachable government.
Economic Growth through Tech
Embracing technology can significantly boost the UK’s economy. Open data, advanced healthcare, and a level playing field for businesses are essential components of this strategy. Each of these areas offers unique benefits that collectively enhance national growth.
Open data can drive innovation across various sectors. Advanced healthcare not only improves public health but also positions the UK as a leader in medical research. Fair digital markets enable smaller companies to thrive, fostering entrepreneurship and competition.
Therefore, a Labour government has the opportunity to leverage technology for economic growth. By addressing these areas strategically, they can create a more efficient, innovative, and competitive economy.
Implementing Change
Implementing these tech initiatives requires careful planning and execution. The government must coordinate efforts across multiple sectors, ensuring each initiative is aligned with broader national goals.
Stakeholder engagement is crucial. Collaboration with tech companies, healthcare providers, and regulatory bodies will ensure these initiatives are practical and effective. Clear communication and transparency will build public trust and support.
Future Prospects
The future looks promising with these tech initiatives. Labour has the chance to transform the UK into a technology-driven nation.
A Labour government could leverage technology to usher in significant changes for the UK. By freeing government data, revolutionising healthcare, tackling Big Tech, and integrating AI, the nation can achieve remarkable advancements. These initiatives promise to streamline daily life, foster economic growth, and enhance public services. Ultimately, strategic tech implementation can shape a more efficient and progressive future for Britain.