On the 21 May, techUK’s Digital Regulation Team launched its Pro-Growth Regulation Report
Last Wednesday, 21 May, techUK hosted the launch event for our latest report, ‘Evolving Digital Regulation for Growth and Innovation’. The report sets out techUK’s ten recommendations to help support a UK regulatory framework that enables innovation, investment, and long-term economic growth. The launch event brought together regulators, industry, and policymakers to discuss this topic.
We were fortunate to be joined by Kate Jones, CEO of the Digital Regulation Cooperation Forum (DRCF), alongside representatives of the ICO, Ofcom and the CMA, as well as several key industry representatives. Please read on for a summary of the highlights of the day’s events.
The discussion throughout the day focused on four key pillars identified in the report to improve the effectiveness of the UK’s regulatory regime:
Adopting a shared growth mindset between industry and regulators.
Supporting innovation and market dynamism.
Improving information flows between regulators and industry.
Unlocking opportunities in key sectors.
techUK’s Director for Technology and Innovation, Sue Daley OBE, opened the session, identifying the clear opportunity to build on the UK’s historic strengths as a world-leading regulatory environment; one that supports both innovation and consumer protections, and aligns with the Government’s ambition to drive economic growth.
This was followed by a keynote address from Kate Jones, CEO of the DRCF, who echoed the view that now is an important moment to shape future regulation. She emphasised the need for a clear and proportionate regulatory environment, to enable industry to maximise opportunities. In particular, businesses should feel confident about investing and innovating, whilst consumers should feel comfortable trying new technologies.
She stressed that enabling growth is a key area of focus for all four members of the DRCF:
Ofcom’s Annual Plan underlined its belief that good regulation supports investment and economic growth by creating stability and certainty for investors.
The CMA’s Annual Plan affirmed its view that competition acts as an engine for productivity, innovation and growth.
The FCA’s Annual Plan confirmed that supporting growth was one of its strategic priorities, which it will deliver through a focus on technology and data, accelerating digital information to improve productivity.
In her speech, Kate Jones also confirmed that the DRCF are currently “establishing the evidence base for the most valuable next steps”, after the conclusion of the AI and Digital Hub pilot scheme. She confirmed that all the member regulators are clear that there should be a next phase, and techUK looks forward to seeing the development of this important programme of work.
The first panel discussion considered ways to strengthen the relationship between industry and regulators. Chaired by techUK’s Head of Digital Regulation, Samiah Anderson, we heard from:
Chloe MacEwen - Senior Director, Microsoft
James Key - Strategy and Policy Principal, Ofcom
Stephen Almond - Executive Director for Regulatory Risk, ICO
Stuart Hudson - Partner & Co-Lead of Brunswick’s Global Regulatory Practice, Brunswick Group
The panellists emphasised the importance of good regulation as an enabler of innovation, investment, and growth, by providing clarity, predictability, and stability. They noted that this has long been a priority for regulators, with James pointing to Ofcom’s trade guidance for producers as one of the organisations earliest pieces of work.
A key topic raised was the tension between investment and competition, which regulators are tasked to navigate. There can be an inherent tension between what benefits certain investors, such as high barriers to entry and what benefits the wider economy, namely greater competition and innovation. Regulators are therefore tasked with navigating this tension, to ensure that the economy grows inclusively and the market is conducive to long-term innovation.
There was a great deal of alignment on the fundamental qualities valued in the relationship between industry and regulators, in particular the importance of transparency and predictability, which enable businesses to innovate with confidence and a general awareness of likely forthcoming regulatory interventions. Ofcom’s James Key also added the importance of candour, with industry and regulators feeling comfortable sharing plans and/or concerns with one another openly.
Panel 2: Regulation to Foster Growth and Innovation
Our second panel focused on how regulation can foster growth and innovation. It was chaired by techUK’s Senior Policy Manager for Data and AI, Audre Verseckaite, who was joined by:
Verity Egerton-Doyle - Antitrust & Foreign Investment Partner, UK Co-Head of Technology Sector & Co-Head of Games and Interactive Entertainment, Linklaters
Will Hayter - Executive Director for Digital Markets, CMA
This discussion delved into balancing risk with innovation, recognising that whilst risk is intrinsic to innovation, there needs to be a distinction between systemic risks, which require intervention, and the uncertainty that naturally arises from experimentation. The panellists also noted that pro-innovation regulation entails creating safe spaces to test new ideas, such as sandboxes or controlled trials, as opposed to trying to eliminate risk altogether.
Yoti’s Julie Dawson drew attention to the need for clear KPIs and agreed outcomes for sandbox programmes. She noted that otherwise participants can be left unclear about the likelihood of regulatory approval after the test period.
The panellists looked ahead, welcoming the forthcoming work of the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO), noting that whilst its role is still evolving, the early signals are positive, with particular praise for the appointment of Lord Willetts as its Chair. Panellists saw potential for RIO to act as a coordinating force, not only between regulators and industry, but also across Government Departments; further enhancing consistency and cooperation.
In the discussion of how to ensure SMEs are engaged in the regulatory policymaking process, panellists highlighted the valuable role of trade bodies and informal support networks in helping innovators to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and to interpret consultations and regulatory documents, which they noted can, at times, be lengthy.
The event prompted many interesting discussions on how industry and regulators can continue to work together to support a regulatory framework that supports growth and innovation. As the UK’s leading technology trade association, representing over 1,100 businesses, the majority of whom are SMEs, techUK is well positioned to continue to facilitate open and constructive conversations on this work. This report forms part of techUK’s wider programme of work to support better and more coordinated digital regulation.
If you have any further questions, please do get in contact with the team:
Samiah Anderson
Head of Digital Regulation, techUK
Samiah Anderson
Head of Digital Regulation, techUK
Samiah Anderson is the Head of Digital Regulation at techUK.
With over six years of Government Affairs expertise, Samiah has built a solid reputation as a tech policy specialist, engaging regularly with UK Government Ministers, senior civil servants and UK Parliamentarians.
Before joining techUK, Samiah led several public affairs functions for international tech firms and coalitions at Burson Global (formerly Hill & Knowlton), delivering CEO-level strategic counsel on political, legislative, and regulatory issues in the UK, EU, US, China, India, and Japan. She is adept at mobilising multinational companies and industry associations, focusing on cross-cutting digital regulatory issues such as competition, artificial intelligence, and more.
She holds a BA (Hons) in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from the University of London, where she founded the New School Economics Society, the Goldsmiths University chapter of Rethinking Economics.
Audre joined techUK in July 2023 as a Policy Manager for Data. Previously, she was a Policy Advisor in the Civil Service, where she worked on the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and at HM Treasury on designing COVID-19 support schemes and delivering the Financial Services and Markets Bill. Before that, Audre worked at a public relations consultancy, advising public and private sector clients on their communications, public relations, and government affairs strategy.
Prior to this, Audre completed an MSc in Public Policy at the Korea Development Institute and a Bachelor's in International Relations and History from SOAS, University of London. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, learning about new cultures through travel and food, and going on adventures.
Dani joined techUK in February 2025 as a Policy Manager in the Digital Regulation team.
Prior to this, Dani worked in political monitoring where she was a consultant for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. In this role, she developed a strong understanding of parliamentary procedure, closely following all of the major developments in the tech centre and working with several key stakeholders and regulators.
She has an undergraduate degree in History from the University of Bristol and an MPhil in Modern European History from the University of Cambridge.
Outside of tech, Dani has a strong interest in addiction policy, particularly towards drugs, having written her dissertation on the topic as well as several subsequent research projects. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking and following all things motoring, whether that be F1, MotoGP or Formula E.
Oliver is a Junior Policy Manager at techUK, working across Public Affairs and Digital Regulation policy. He supports the organisation’s engagement with government and parliament, contributes to shaping techUK’s regulatory agenda, and plays a key role in coordinating political outreach, policy projects, and flagship events.
He joined techUK in November 2023 as a Team Assistant to the Policy and Public Affairs team, before stepping into his current role. He has been closely involved in efforts to ensure the tech sector’s voice is heard in the policymaking process.
Oliver holds a Master’s in Policy Research from the University of Bristol and a BSc in Policy from Swansea University. During his studies, he contributed to mental health research as a Student Research Assistant for the SMaRteN network.
Outside of work, Oliver is a keen debater and remains active in the UK debating community, having previously led the Swansea University Debating Union. He enjoys exploring complex issues from multiple perspectives and values clear, thoughtful communication in policy discussions.
techUK's Policy and Public Affairs Programme activities
techUK helps our members understand, engage and influence the development of digital and tech policy in the UK and beyond. We support our members to understand some of the most complex and thorny policy questions that confront our sector. Visit the programme page here.
techUK Report - Evolving Digital Regulation for Growth and Innovation
techUK is excited to announce its Pro-Growth Regulation Report, "Evolving Digital Regulation for Growth and Innovation
Our members develop strong networks, build meaningful partnerships and grow their businesses as we all work together to create a thriving environment where industry, government and stakeholders come together to realise the positive outcomes tech can deliver.
Antony Walker is deputy CEO of techUK, which he played a lead role in launching in November 2013.
Antony is a member of the senior leadership team and has overall responsibility for techUK’s policy work. Prior to his appointment in July 2012 Antony was chief executive of the Broadband Stakeholder Group (BSG), the UK’s independent advisory group on broadband policy. Antony was closely involved in the development of broadband policy development in the UK since the BSG was established in 2001 and authored several major reports to government. He also led the development of the UK’s world leading Open Internet Code of Practice that addresses the issue of net neutrality in the UK. Prior to setting up the BSG, Antony spent six years working in Brussels for the American Chamber of Commerce following and writing about telecoms issues and as a consultant working on EU social affairs and environmental issues. Antony is a graduate of Aberdeen University and KU Leuven and is also a Policy Fellow Alumni of the Centre for Science and Policy at Cambridge University.
As Head of Public Affairs, Alice supports techUK’s strategic engagement with Westminster, Whitehall and beyond. She regularly works to engage with ministers, members of the UK’s parliaments and senior civil servants on techUK’s work advocating for the role of technology in the UK’s economy as well as wider society.
Alice joined techUK in 2022. She has experience working at both a political monitoring company, leading on the tech, media and telecoms portfolio there, and also as an account manager in a Westminster-based public affairs agency. She has a degree from the University of Sheffield in Politics and Philosophy.
Edward leads the Digital Economy programme at techUK, which includes our work on online safety, fraud, and regulation for growth initiatives.
He has prior experience working for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and has previously worked for a number of public affairs consultancies specialising in research and strategy, working with leading clients in the technology and financial services sectors.
Samiah Anderson is the Head of Digital Regulation at techUK.
With over six years of Government Affairs expertise, Samiah has built a solid reputation as a tech policy specialist, engaging regularly with UK Government Ministers, senior civil servants and UK Parliamentarians.
Before joining techUK, Samiah led several public affairs functions for international tech firms and coalitions at Burson Global (formerly Hill & Knowlton), delivering CEO-level strategic counsel on political, legislative, and regulatory issues in the UK, EU, US, China, India, and Japan. She is adept at mobilising multinational companies and industry associations, focusing on cross-cutting digital regulatory issues such as competition, artificial intelligence, and more.
She holds a BA (Hons) in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from the University of London, where she founded the New School Economics Society, the Goldsmiths University chapter of Rethinking Economics.
Audre joined techUK in July 2023 as a Policy Manager for Data. Previously, she was a Policy Advisor in the Civil Service, where she worked on the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and at HM Treasury on designing COVID-19 support schemes and delivering the Financial Services and Markets Bill. Before that, Audre worked at a public relations consultancy, advising public and private sector clients on their communications, public relations, and government affairs strategy.
Prior to this, Audre completed an MSc in Public Policy at the Korea Development Institute and a Bachelor's in International Relations and History from SOAS, University of London. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, learning about new cultures through travel and food, and going on adventures.
Mia focuses on shaping a policy environment that fosters the expansion of the UK tech sector while maximising the transformative potential of technology across all industries.
Prior to joining techUK, Mia worked as a Senior Policy Adviser at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) within the Policy Unit.
Mia holds an MSc in International Development from the University of Manchester and a BA(Hons) in Politics and International Relations from the University of Nottingham.
Archie Breare joined techUK in September 2022 as the Telecoms Programme intern, and moved into the Policy and Public Affairs team in February 2023.
Before starting at techUK, Archie was a student at the University of Cambridge, completing an undergraduate degree in History and a master's degree in Modern British History.
In his spare time, he likes to read, discuss current affairs, and to try and persuade himself to cycle more.
Dani joined techUK in February 2025 as a Policy Manager in the Digital Regulation team.
Prior to this, Dani worked in political monitoring where she was a consultant for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. In this role, she developed a strong understanding of parliamentary procedure, closely following all of the major developments in the tech centre and working with several key stakeholders and regulators.
She has an undergraduate degree in History from the University of Bristol and an MPhil in Modern European History from the University of Cambridge.
Outside of tech, Dani has a strong interest in addiction policy, particularly towards drugs, having written her dissertation on the topic as well as several subsequent research projects. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking and following all things motoring, whether that be F1, MotoGP or Formula E.
Oliver is a Junior Policy Manager at techUK, working across Public Affairs and Digital Regulation policy. He supports the organisation’s engagement with government and parliament, contributes to shaping techUK’s regulatory agenda, and plays a key role in coordinating political outreach, policy projects, and flagship events.
He joined techUK in November 2023 as a Team Assistant to the Policy and Public Affairs team, before stepping into his current role. He has been closely involved in efforts to ensure the tech sector’s voice is heard in the policymaking process.
Oliver holds a Master’s in Policy Research from the University of Bristol and a BSc in Policy from Swansea University. During his studies, he contributed to mental health research as a Student Research Assistant for the SMaRteN network.
Outside of work, Oliver is a keen debater and remains active in the UK debating community, having previously led the Swansea University Debating Union. He enjoys exploring complex issues from multiple perspectives and values clear, thoughtful communication in policy discussions.
Tess joined techUK as an Policy and Public Affairs Team Assistant in November of 2024. In this role, she supports areas such as administration, member communications and media content.
Before joining the Team, she gained experience working as an Intern in both campaign support for MPs and Councilors during the Local and General Election and working for the Casimir Pulaski Foundation. As well as working for multiple charities on issues such as the climate crisis, educational inequality and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). Tess obtained her Bachelors of Arts in Politics and International Relations from University of Nottingham.
