Insights

FLock.io has demonstrated federated learning as a sovereign AI technique for governmental organisations with Sarawak, Malaysia as a case study.

In this insight, techUK responds to government plans to expand the Youth Guarantee, create a Youth Jobs Grant, and offer incentives for youth apprenticeships.

In 2025, techUK’s annual research pointed toward a sector defined by optimism. Despite global shocks, the UK has been seen as a premier destination to start and scale a business, with the new Government’s commitment to a growth agenda seen as a step in the right direction. One year on, the view has shifted. While the ambition of the UK’s business remains undimmed, a significant "confidence gap" has emerged between the Government's rhetoric and the reality of the UK’s operating environment. 

From 1 April 2026, suppliers awarded below-threshold public sector contracts will be required to register on the Central Digital Platform to obtain a unique supplier identifier. The change forms part of wider implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 and aims to improve transparency in public sector contract awards.

techUK explores the government’s proposed changes to indefinite leave to remain. 

Last year techUK's Future Visions series explored physical AI as a next-generation technology with cutting-edge uses in robotics, smart machines, and human-machine collaboration. This year, our AI and Data programme will dig deeper into how physical AI is evolving and what it could mean for the UK's AI sector. 

On 6 March 2026, the Lords Communications and Digital Committee published the outcome of their inquiry into AI and copyright.  The report discourages the Government from introducing a new TDM exception with an opt-out mechanism, advocates for statutory transparency requirements for on AI training data, and urges the Government to act against unauthorised digital replicas “in the style of” of creators’ work.  

Today, the long-expected consultation into the National Digital ID Scheme has launched. This 91-page consultation will run for eight weeks, closing 05 May.  

The Home Office has published its Fraud Strategy 20262029, outlining a multi-year plan to tackle fraud against individuals and businesses in the UK.

Over the past five months, techUK’s Photonics sprint campaign has convened innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore how the UK can build upon its world-class photonics research base and industrial strengths to drive future growth, productivity, and global leadership.