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UK’s new tech policy could reshape venture flows

Financial Times Companies •
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Andy Burnham’s incoming administration signals a shift toward tech sovereignty that may dampen foreign investment momentum. The government’s plan to use £1bn of procurement funds for defence and NHS projects to back domestic firms signals a preference for local supply chains.

The debate over Palantir and Wayve illustrates the clash between job protection and innovation. Critics fear that restricting Anthropic models will isolate the UK from leading AI research, while supporters argue tighter regulation protects jobs and data.

For investors, the focus on regional clusters like Atom Valley and a cautious stance on US‑led tech giants could divert capital away from aggressive growth startups toward more stable, state‑backed projects. The policy may tighten the UK’s position as a top venture destination, forcing firms to seek funding elsewhere or adapt to a more protectionist environment.