Government says cybersecurity is key to making UK a science and technology superpower
Businesses, public sector bodies and experts across the UK economy are being asked to share their views on cybersecurity and economic growth “as soon as possible”, as part of an independent review into the sector.
The McPartland review—headed by Conservative MP Stephen McPartland—began on 6 February to assess the economic benefits of cybersecurity for the UK economy. It is expected to report by 1 May and make recommendations to government.
Opening a call for evidence on 23 February, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology said the sector has “huge potential for further significant growth in revenue and employment”, and wants input on how best to generate and harness that growth.
“The government has the ambition to make the UK a science and technology superpower and to prioritise economic growth,” Dsit said. “A thriving digital economy must have the right foundations, with security at its heart.”
Evidence gathered will focus on business confidence, good cybersecurity practices, transparency, costs, and domestic and international standards.
Dsit said revenue from the UK’s cybersecurity sector has almost doubled in the past five years, with more than £10.5 billion generated in 2023, up from £5.7bn in 2018. It estimated that 20,000 new jobs have been created by the sector in the same period.
The call for views will close on 28 March, and early evidence will be used in roundtable events in March and early April.
Views can be shared through an online survey by emailing cybersecurity@dsit.gov.uk, or by post.