Member Article

London 'crying out' for tech talent, says Assembly report

Nearly half of London’s leading tech figures believe that the biggest challenge facing the tech sector is a shortage of skilled workers, according to a new report from the London Assembly,

The report from the London Assembly Economy Committee entitled ‘A Mayoral Manifesto for the Digital Economy’ found that the UK economy will need 745,000 additional digital skilled workers in the next two years.

There is also a particular need for women in the tech industry, the report says.

Furthermore, London’s economy hinges on fast and reliable broadband, but superfast coverage for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) lags behind average coverage in urban areas (67% compared to 83%).

The London Assembly called for the Mayor and the London Enterprise Panel (LEP) to design an apprenticeship, which is fit for the digital sector. In addition, it recommends more support for SMEs to take on apprentices.

​Fiona Twycross AM, Chair of the Economy Committee, said: “London has a world leading tech sector, but we need to ensure that this thriving sector is as diverse as possible with opportunities for women and local young people benefitting from what is on their doorstep. Tech companies are crying out for people with the right digital skills. We must do all we can to get young people trained, so they don’t miss out on the opportunities out there.

“There is also a problem with London’s connectivity - some companies have to resort to sending their work via courier to clients, due to frustratingly slow upload speeds. Moves have been made to address this, but urgent action is needed to improve connectivity and broadband access for SMEs.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .