Investment Technology Businesses 2025-07-02
2025-07-02
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Recent discussions with technology businesses on investing in Northern Ireland.
I am concerned about the recent discussions Minister has had with technology businesses regarding investment in Northern Ireland. I would like to know if she could outline the many good reasons for tech companies to invest there and what steps have been taken to promote this opportunity?
I welcome the opportunity to promote Northern Ireland’s tech companies here. Over 1,500 international companies have set up operations there due to Government support, strong working relations with the Executive, dual market access, a concentration of tech firms, academic support from Ulster University and Queen's University, and most importantly, a skilled workforce with industry-ready skills.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Potential for Northern Ireland's tech sector to contribute to becoming an AI superpower while addressing online safety concerns.
Does the Minister agree that Northern Ireland’s tech sector can play a huge part in making the UK an AI superpower? However, as highlighted by the Northern Ireland Committee, chaired by my hon. Friend the Member for Gower (Tonia Antoniazzi), there is a link between online safety and rates of domestic abuse in Northern Ireland. How does the Government plan to support tech companies while ensuring women's safety?
We recognise the epidemic of violence against women and girls, including online safety issues. There are opportunities for AI companies to work on technology ensuring perpetrators are caught and justice is done while promoting AI growth zones as part of the industrial strategy.
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Q3
Direct Answer
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Ensuring full benefits of the new industrial strategy support companies in Northern Ireland, including central London.
Tech businesses are significant in my central London constituency. Can Minister assure me that the full advantages of the industrial strategy will help companies in Northern Ireland and generate business opportunities throughout the UK?
The industrial strategy is beneficial for Northern Ireland. It offers certainty to businesses and investors, aligning well with strengths such as advanced manufacturing, cyber, defence, creative industries, life sciences, and financial services, providing increased UK-wide funding opportunities.
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Q4
Direct Answer
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Potential for the Dublin to Belfast economic corridor in Lagan Valley.
Does Minister agree that the Dublin to Belfast economic corridor, including my constituency of Lagan Valley, will play a crucial role and is a huge investment opportunity?
Belfast is central to the UK’s industrial strategy on cyber and tech, aiming to be one of the top three places globally by 2035. Growth and city deals are vital components supporting such opportunities.
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Q5
Direct Answer
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Potential for Ballykelly to become a logistics hub and tech business location.
Tech businesses in Northern Ireland could benefit from a Heathrow logistics hub. Considering Ballykelly's large land base, nearby seaport, airport, and railway line, does the Minister see it as an ideal spot for such a venture?
Hon. Member is an excellent representative, and the plea for investment in Ballykelly as a location for such a hub has been heard.
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Q6
Direct Answer
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Conversations with public sector broadcasters like ITV about future investment in Northern Ireland.
As Chair of the Select Committee and the ITV all-party parliamentary group, we hosted an event last night with ITV and UTV. What conversations is Minister having with public sector broadcasters regarding future investments?
Various businesses, including tech companies, fintech firms, cyber-security providers, and advanced manufacturers like Catagen, are part of the strong ecosystem. Broadcasters can engage with these entities making Northern Ireland an attractive place to invest.
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