A Downing Street spokesperson said:
“The Prime Minister and Chancellor co-hosted a roundtable this
afternoon with leading figures from the UK tech industry, ahead
of a reception at Downing Street attended by entrepreneurs and
innovators from across the country.
“The Prime Minister began by welcoming the huge contribution that
the tech sector makes to the whole of the UK. She promised to
listen to the industry’s views on what more Government can do to
help it go from strength to strength.
“The Chancellor said Government would be ambitious as it works to
make the most of the incredible potential of the tech sector, to
break down the barriers facing entrepreneurs and to drive future
growth.
“On Brexit, the Prime Minister said she had no doubt that the UK
will remain a brilliant place to build a tech business after we
have left the EU, and reiterated that she is determined to get
the best deal for our country. There was agreement during the
discussion on the need for Britain to take advantage of the
opportunity of Brexit to be bold and ambitious in the action
we#re taking to boost the tech sector.
“There was also consensus on the need to make sure we’re
attracting the brightest and best talent to the UK. Eileen
Burbidge, Chair of Tech City UK, welcomed the PM’s announcement
of an increase in visas for tech talent as being exactly what the
sector needs.
“There was a discussion on skills, and the need to ensure people
of all ages and backgrounds have the digital skills to get ahead
and take up the good, high-quality jobs on offer in the tech
industry. And there was agreement on the importance of continued
investment in infrastructure, including superfast broadband.
“Nick Sturge, CEO of Engine Shed, welcomed the new investment to
expand Tech City UK into a nationwide network, which he said has
the potential to raise the profile of regional tech hubs and
entrepreneurs outside of London.
“Culture Secretary closed the roundtable by
reaffirming the Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the
sector and to maintaining this engagement through future
meetings, to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of innovation
and technology in the years ahead.”
