Liz Kendall has left government as Andy Burnham takes office as technology secretary. Her tenure delivered major initiatives: Sovereign AI, a £1.1 bn chip plan, and a ban on under‑16s using social media. The departure leaves questions about who will champion tech in the cabinet.
In a statement on Monday, the Leicester West MP described serving in a Labour government as “the privilege of my life.” She thanked Sir Keir Starmer for his leadership and pledged to support his successor in any capacity. Her words underscored a commitment to continued public service.
Kendall positioned sovereign capability at the heart of UK tech policy, overseeing grants, computing, and skills programmes through the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. Her flagship projects included Sovereign AI, described as a unique blend of venture speed and state power, and a £1.1 bn AI Hardware Plan that allocated £150 m to British chip startups. These initiatives aimed to give Britain greater control over AI development.
She defended the agenda in clear terms, calling AI “the most powerful technology of our lifetimes.” Kendall warned that the nation must shape AI to its advantage rather than be left at its mercy. Her remarks echoed an earlier RUSI speech that framed AI as a strategic choice for the country.
The transition raises uncertainty for chip designers, AI firms, and SMEs relying on new funding streams. The record £55 bn R&D settlement and the Women in Tech taskforce are among the programs whose future is now in doubt. Industry leaders are watching closely as the government decides whether to keep these commitments intact.
The social media ban for under‑16s, introduced last month, remains a controversial legacy. Kendall said the measure would reset how children interact with technology and create a healthier online environment. Platforms, advertisers, and agencies are still adapting to the new rules.
Beyond tech, Kendall launched the Youth Guarantee at the Department for Work and Pensions, promising every young person would be earning or learning. She also co‑chaired a child poverty taskforce that eliminated the two‑child benefit limit. These policies continue under new ministers.
In her final remarks, Kendall urged support for the UK's world‑leading scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs. She emphasized the need to nurture the tech sector to build a modern Britain. The latest ONS data show scientific and technical activities contributed the most to growth in May, reinforcing the sector's importance.
Burnham has assumed the technology brief, which Kendall called “the most exciting and transformative brief in government.” However, it remains unclear whether the department will retain its current structure, as proposals to break up DSIT have already sparked industry revolt. Tech firms across the country are awaiting clarity on the future of policy and funding.
The uncertainty surrounding the department's shape and leadership is the central concern for Britain's technology community. Stakeholders hope that the new leadership will preserve the momentum of recent reforms and continue to invest in sovereign capabilities. The outcome will shape the UK's position in the global tech landscape.
