Labour ministers engaged in more than 200 meetings with five major Big Tech companies within a span of less than two years, an analysis of official logs has revealed. These engagements, averaging nearly one per working day, occurred between July 2024 and March of the current year.
The companies involved were Google, Apple, Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft. This frequency of meetings was reportedly double that of the full Cabinet, which typically convenes weekly when Parliament is in session.
Peter Kyle, who served as technology and business secretary during part of this period, logged the highest number of meetings, with 40 engagements involving these technology giants. His schedule included a Google-hosted Q&A on diversity in tech and a visit to Apple's headquarters. Former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer also hosted an informal gathering for Big Tech executives at Downing Street prior to an International Investment Summit.
While some meetings were officially categorized as discussions on investing in Britain, critics have voiced concerns that the extensive number of interactions suggests a preferential treatment of large technology firms over smaller UK businesses. This has led to accusations that ministers are prioritizing Big Tech's agenda.
Concerns were raised that UK companies often find it more challenging to secure ministerial attention compared to their larger international counterparts. Andy Burrows, chief executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, stated that the government operated an "open-door policy for Big Tech firms but slammed the door shut for civil society groups and online safety campaigners."
A government spokesperson defended the engagement, asserting that "Engaging with tech companies is part and parcel of our work delivering growth in every postcode."