Billions of pounds worth of investments in emerging growth sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), life sciences, and infrastructure, have been unveiled at the UK government’s inaugural International Investment Summit in London.
The summit, held at the historic Guildhall, convened world-leading CEOs, investors, and government ministers to discuss significant investment opportunities in the UK. The event aims to reinforce the government’s commitment to securing investment as a pathway to economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards.
Prime Minister’s keynote speech highlighted the government’s recent achievements, securing tens of billions in investments within just 100 days of taking office. He asserted the importance of stable governance in attracting investors, emphasising the UK’s potential to build strong partnerships with businesses.
“Stability leads to growth, and growth fosters stability. This is crucial to my project,” the Prime Minister stated. He also pledged to eliminate regulatory hurdles that could impede investment in vital infrastructure, such as housing and transport.
Business leaders have responded positively to the government’s “clear policy direction,” which has already attracted £24 billion in clean energy investments. This policy framework includes strengthening the Office for Investment, implementing major planning reforms, and establishing a National Wealth Fund to stimulate private investment.
In his address, the Prime Minister stressed that the UK must adapt its regulatory framework to remain competitive in emerging sectors. “We will remove bureaucracy that obstructs investment, ensuring that every regulator prioritises growth,” he stated.
The summit featured various sessions, including discussions on the opportunities presented by sectors like health tech and clean energy. Attendees included prominent figures such as Ruth Porat, Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet, and David A. Ricks, Chair and CEO of Eli Lilly.
Highlighting the significance of AI, the Prime Minister participated in an “in conversation” session with former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, moderated by GSK’s CEO Dame Emma Walmsley. They explored how AI could drive economic growth and improve public services, particularly in healthcare and education.
Chancellor of the Exchequer is set to conclude the summit with a panel discussion on UK investment opportunities alongside major investment leaders like Larry Fink from BlackRock and Bruce Flatt from Brookfield Asset Management.
Investment Minister Poppy Gustafsson described the summit as a pivotal moment for showcasing the UK’s economic strengths globally. “It’s never been a better time to invest in Britain,” she affirmed.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan echoed these sentiments, emphasising the UK’s renewed commitment to attracting global investment. He stressed the importance of creating jobs and enhancing living standards across the nation.
Alex Kendall, CEO of Wayve, underscored the UK’s potential leadership in Embodied AI, particularly in automated vehicles. He commended the government’s collaborative approach to intelligent legislation, which fosters both investment and innovation.
As the summit concludes, it sets the stage for the UK to position itself at the forefront of emerging growth sectors, signalling a robust commitment to rebuilding the economy through private investment and strategic partnerships.
