Minister praises GOV.UK response to Brexit

Simon Hart says GDS has reacted quickly and effectively to impending EU exit

Credit: Parliament UK/CC BY 3.0

The new minister in charge of the Government Digital Service has praised the speed and effectiveness of the organisation’s response to the challenges of Brexit.

Simon Hart, who was confirmed as the minister for implementation three weeks ago, this week made his maiden speech in his new role. In an address to the techUK Building the Smarter State conference in central London, Hart used his first public engagement to praise the work of the digital agency in helping government – and the country – prepare for the UK’s impending exit from the European Union.


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He said that, in terms of GDS’s wider transformation objectives, “Brexit has made the challenge a little bit more pressing”.

“But the GOV.UK team has responded well, and responded rapidly to the task of leaving the European Union,” he said. “We have optimised GOV.UK to help people and businesses take decisions in preparation for Brexit.”

Elsewhere in his speech, Hart acknowledged that he does not have a recognised background in the digital sector. But he claimed this could actually be a benefit.

“This is not an area I am particularly well known for,” he said. “But, happily, that is a strength – because I am just an average user. I hope I can bring objectivity and practical observations to the role.”

Sam Trendall

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