Andy Burnham, the incoming prime minister, has ordered officials to draw up plans abolishing the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. The reorganisation sparked immediate condemnation from Members of Parliament, Whitehall officials and technology sector experts.
Critics argue the move wastes precious time during a period when artificial intelligence development and economic growth demand focused government attention. MPs across parties worry that dismantling a dedicated technology department sends the wrong signal to the tech industry and international competitors like the United States and China, both aggressively pursuing AI leadership.
Burnham framed the abolition as part of a broader Whitehall restructuring aimed at streamlining government operations. Details on how technology policy would be handled after the department's dissolution remain unclear. The plan raises questions about whether science and innovation functions would transfer to existing departments or disappear entirely from cabinet-level focus.
Industry experts expressed concern that dispersing technology responsibilities across multiple departments creates bureaucratic fragmentation. They note that AI regulation, semiconductor strategy and digital infrastructure require coordinated, specialist oversight. One tech leader warned that abandoning a unified technology department puts Britain at a competitive disadvantage against nations maintaining dedicated digital and AI strategies.
Several MPs questioned whether Burnham consulted with the technology sector before ordering the abolition. Members from both major parties noted the timing appears poorly chosen, given ongoing debates about AI regulation and Britain's role in global tech competition.
The backlash suggests Burnham faces an uphill battle implementing the broader reorganisation. Even allies worry the move signals deprioritisation of technology and innovation at a moment when these sectors drive economic competitiveness. The controversy may force the incoming government to reconsider its departmental restructuring plans before taking office.