Britain will launch a 10-year industrial strategy next week to support key sectors, create jobs and promote long-term economic growth.
The plan is part of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s broader “Plan for Change” and aims to improve the country’s skills system, support innovation and direct new investment to high-growth areas.
The government has committed more than 1.5 billion pounds ($2 billion) through targeted funds to back skills development, creative industries and sports.
Business Minister Jonathan Reynolds announced 275 million pounds on Sunday for training workers in sectors such as engineering and defence. He said the policy will focus on investing in British workers and reducing dependence on foreign labour.
Reynolds said the plan is designed to help people secure stable jobs in emerging industries. Alex Veitch from the British Chambers of Commerce said the funds for training in key sectors could support economic growth.
Earlier this year, the government said it would change its defence strategy to address risks from Russia, nuclear threats and cyber-attacks. In February, Starmer promised the largest sustained rise in defence spending since the Cold War, responding to pressure from the United States for Europe to strengthen its own security.
The government has also pledged 380 million pounds for the creative sector, including film and video games, and over 900 million pounds to host major sports events and improve local sports facilities.
However, business groups have raised concerns about high energy costs. A report from Make UK in June warned that energy-intensive industries could suffer without government help. It called for cost reforms, targeted relief and stable pricing.
Finance Minister Rachel Reeves acknowledged these concerns in a spending review on June 12. She announced over 10 billion pounds for green infrastructure and industrial decarbonisation. Reeves also confirmed the creation of a British Industrial Strategy Council to monitor the plan’s implementation.
