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Role of Big Tech in Society

23 June 2026

Lead MP

Mark Pritchard
The Wrekin
Con

Responding Minister

Kanishka Narayan

Tags

Democracy & ElectionsScience & Technology
Word Count: 10572
Other Contributors: 15

At a Glance

Mark Pritchard raised concerns about role of big tech in society in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

Mr. Pritchard asks the Government to establish their own centre for tech research and development to ensure national control over critical technologies and data, rather than outsourcing everything to private companies. He calls for smarter regulation of tech firms and more competition within the industry to rebalance the relationship between government and big tech.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

The Wrekin
Opened the debate
Mr. Mark Pritchard is concerned about the growing reliance on big tech companies by governments, which he sees as a strategic risk to national sovereignty and democracy. He notes that while private sector collaboration can benefit government efficiency, it also poses risks of power ceding to large tech firms without democratic oversight or accountability. He mentions that some major figures in technology have expressed skepticism towards democracy, questioning whether big tech is politically neutral.

Government Response

Kanishka Narayan
Government Response
Responded to multiple MPs, addressing questions on technology regulation, open-source development, social media bans for under-16s, compliance measures, youth opportunities post-ban, data centre concerns, pension fund allocations, sovereignty strategy, competition enforcement, and AI security. Noted the government's commitment to British values, innovation in open source, robust online safety legislation, support for youth activities, contract reviews for NHS platforms, proactive national security initiatives, clean energy considerations in data centres, strategic investment in technology equities, diversification of chip company engagement, full-fat British capability building, and continuous evaluation of AI risks through state institutions.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.