TechUK has set out a list of ‘key asks’ for the UK government in its exit negotiations from the European Union, warning that the sector is not immune to Brexit.A report commissioned by the organisation from Frontier Economics, entitled The UK Digital Sectors After Brexit, argues how the the country’s fast-growing high-exporting digitally intensive industries can form the basis of making Brexit a success.
According to the report, 16% of GVA (Gross Value Added), 24% of total UK exports, and three million jobs, businesses that either produce or intensively use digital technology make up a large, and growing, part of the UK economy. The UK’s digital sectors are heavily integrated with global markets. 20% of digital goods and services are exported internationally. 81% of digital exports are in services.
Jacqueline de Rojas, president of techUK and MD, UK and Ireland – Northern Europe of Sage said: “There is no sector more dynamic, more innovative, more resilient than tech, but that doesn’t make it immune to Brexit. As this report makes clear, there are real risks that need to be understood and addressed. The UK’s thriving tech sector can come through this process and go on to power the vision of Global Britain.”
TechUK is looking for
- A realistic and robust plan to ensure the UK’s digital industries can thrive post Brexit
- Ensure Continued Market Access and Regulatory Certainty
- Set out a credible plan to ensure the UK remains open to the best international talent
- Ensure there is a robust legal process in place for cross border data transfers.
Of these it is the second point that will meet with the greatest difficulty.
Prime Minister Theresa May has already signalled Britain’s intention to leave the single market.
