Scottish Labour’s technology vision

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Scottish Labour’s technology vision??

The publication of Scottish Labour’s technology consultation paper this week has sparked debate across Scotland’s business and tech communities. The headlines are clear: a bold plan to tackle digital exclusion, supercharge the economy, and transform public services. But as always, the real story is more nuanced.?

What this paper represents is not just another set of policy proposals—it’s a signal of where Scotland’s technology landscape is heading. And for businesses, investors, and policymakers, understanding the deeper shifts beneath the surface is critical.?

Scotland’s digital divide: More than a social problem?

One of the most striking parts of the paper is its focus on digital exclusion. The numbers are sobering: one in six adults lacks essential digital skills, and thousands of households remain disconnected. But while this issue is often framed as a social challenge, there’s an economic reality that’s harder to ignore.?

The businesses of the future will rely on a digitally literate workforce. Companies already struggling to recruit skilled employees will face an even tougher landscape if Scotland fails to bring more people online. This isn’t just about fairness—it’s about whether Scotland can remain competitive in an increasingly digital global economy.?

Scottish Labour’s proposal to recognise digital exclusion as a measure of deprivation is a signal that tackling this issue is no longer optional. Businesses, especially those reliant on digital infrastructure, should be paying close attention.?

The tech ecosystem: Will Scotland seize the opportunity??

The paper also emphasises the need to support Scotland’s technology sector, endorsing many of the recommendations from the 2020 Scottish Technology Ecosystem Review. But here’s the issue: we’ve been talking about this for years, and progress has been slow.?

Scotland has world-class research institutions, vibrant start-ups, and high-growth tech hubs in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. Yet, without urgent action, the country risks falling behind global competitors. The paper calls for more investment in start-ups, simplified business support, and strategic infrastructure expansion. The big question: will it finally happen??

For business leaders, this isn’t just a government problem. It’s a market opportunity. Companies that engage now—whether through partnerships, investment, or skills development—will be best positioned to benefit from Scotland’s digital expansion. Those who wait risk missing out.?

Public sector transformation: Is Scotland ready??

The boldest part of the paper? Its call for the wholesale digitisation of public services. Governments across the world have embraced technology to drive efficiency—Estonia’s e-government model is a prime example. Scotland, however, is still behind the curve.?

Scottish Labour is pushing for a long-term strategy that integrates AI, automation, and digital platforms into government services. If implemented, this could mean faster NHS appointments, simpler tax filings, and more responsive public services. But execution will be everything.?

For businesses, this presents two major implications: First, public sector contracts in tech and digital services could see significant growth. Second, if done right, a more efficient government could create a smoother business environment, reducing red tape and making interactions with the state less painful.?

Why this matters?

For businesses, the key takeaway is clear: digital skills are becoming an economic imperative, businesses need to invest in upskilling their workforce and should position themselves to take advantage of increased political support. Recent pronouncements made in London also make the direction of travel for the public sector clear – Labour believes digitisation could create major opportunities, and companies in AI, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure should be preparing now.?

The bottom line? This isn’t just a political document. It’s a roadmap for where Scotland is heading, whether Labour or SNP are the biggest party in 2026. Businesses that engage early, adapt, and help governments solve problems will be the ones that thrive. The rest risk being left behind.?

More interesting stories this week?

More of the stories that matter this week: ?

• Labour dropped plan to ban foreign donors after Lord Alli intervened (The Times) – A new book charting Keir Starmer’s rise to power has claimed the Prime Minister abandoned plans to ban foreign political donations after an intervention from Lord Alli, the party’s former fundraising chief.???

• UK to unveil ￡100m development finance drive (FT) - The Development Minister Annaliese Dodds unveiled ￡100m in seed funding for businesses focused on tackling poverty and climate change on Monday.???

• Britain stresses out over which Marco Rubio it’s going to get (Politico) - The UK is closely watching Marco Rubio’s appointment as US Secretary of State under Donald Trump’s second administration, hoping he will provide stability in transatlantic relations. However, Rubio faces internal challenges balancing his internationalist views with the nationalist and isolationist inclinations of Trump’s administration.?

That’s all for this week’s edition of The BIG Picture. Don’t hesitate to send your thoughts, comments, or tips to [email protected]. And don’t forget to subscribe!?