The latest administration has a different outlook, grasping the idea that technology – real technology – and innovation are crucial to the economy’s future. And today has seen the unveiling of the Modern Industrial Strategy.
Included in the 10 point plan are skills development, more support for business and an investment in science, research and innovation. STEM skills, digital skills and numeracy are being targeted and there will, apparently, be £170million invested to create new institutes of technology.
Addressing the skills issue, the Government says: “We will build a proper system of technical education and boost key skills in science, technology, engineering, maths and digital proficiency to ensure people have the skills employers need now and in the future.”
So, we conclude that, until today, the UK had an outdated industrial strategy and a technical education system was not fit for purpose. But who needs technology when you have the financial sector?
Not exactly a glowing testimonial for governments of all shades in the last 20 years, is it?
Even if you could snap your fingers and put in place right now all the things being put forward, it will still take years for the benefits to appear. Better late than never, perhaps.
