The incoming administration is evaluating a proposal to dissolve the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, transferring its duties to the Departments for Business and Trade and for Culture, Media and Sport.
Currently, the department oversees the United Kingdom Research and Innovation body, Innovate UK grants, and the Government Digital Service. A restructuring would place these critical programmes in flux at a time when firms are urged to adopt artificial intelligence and invest in innovation.
Industry leaders have formally objected, describing the plan as mistimed and potentially harmful to the sector’s rapid growth.
They argue that a single department offers a unified front door for researchers, AI practitioners, innovators and policymakers, delivering clarity, speed and a dedicated champion within the cabinet.
Splitting the department’s responsibilities could disrupt initiatives such as the AI Safety Institute, the Sovereign AI Fund, the Government Digital Service and UKRI, slowing momentum when speed is essential for economic and global competitiveness.
A former senior AI adviser warned that the reorganisation would waste critical time and energy needed for substantive work, emphasizing the sector’s importance to national security and the economy.
A senior Labour MP echoed the need for focused support, stressing that the country must signal its determination to lead in technology and innovation.
Some founders acknowledge the department’s shortcomings and welcome a thorough overhaul, while awaiting details on what will replace it and how the new structure will support tech businesses.
The controversy emerges as the prime minister promises a pro‑business agenda and prepares a cabinet that may include an AI minister, despite the uncertainty surrounding the department’s future.
Small and medium‑size enterprises stress the need for a clear government champion for technology, fearing that grant, standards and AI policy processes could stall during a year‑long reorganisation.
