Burnham’s Whitehall shake-up sparks row over DSIT abolition
Critics argue the proposed transfer of science and technology policy to a larger business department undermines the UK’s standing in artificial intelligence and economic growth.
Incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has directed officials to prepare plans to abolish the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) as part of a wider Whitehall reorganisation. The proposal has triggered significant backlash from Members of Parliament, civil servants, and technology sector leaders, who contend the move is ill-timed during a crucial period for artificial intelligence development and economic expansion.
Under the proposed restructuring, much of the science and technology policy responsibility would be transferred to a larger business department led by Chief Whip Jonathan Reynolds. Oversight of artificial intelligence in the public sector would instead fall to Cabinet Secretary Antonia Romeo, rather than a minister. The plans have not yet been formally signed off, but they have already caused considerable disquiet among experts inside and outside government.
Critics argue that dissolving DSIT undermines the UK’s competitive advantage in science and risks subordinating the tech sector to broader business priorities. Matt Clifford, an adviser on AI to former prime ministers Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak, described the move as a significant mistake. He warned that tying up senior science and technology officials in a reorganisation wastes time and energy that is desperately needed for substantive policy work during a critical moment for tech as both an economic and national security issue.
Dom Hallas, executive director of the Startup Coalition, echoed these concerns, stating that placing British tech within a mega business department would see it competing for attention with sectors such as steel. He highlighted that the reorganisation would waste six months at a time when speed is of the essence. Technology investor Barney Hussey-Yeo also expressed disappointment, noting that the UK possesses a major competitive advantage in scientific capacity that DSIT is tasked with turning into economic power.
The controversy emerges as Burnham’s team finalises plans for government ahead of his official appointment on Monday. While some in the technology sector believe Burnham may reconsider the closure of the department within the next 48 hours, a spokesperson for the incoming prime minister did not respond to requests for comment. The reorganisation comes amid broader concerns within the Labour party about early decisions, including the likely appointment of Shabana Mahmood as chancellor.