The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) is set to undergo a significant expansion in both scope and size, as announced by newly appointed Secretary of State Peter Kyle.

This move aims to revolutionise public services and drive economic growth through the strategic application of science and technology, and potentially serves as an indicator of the new Labour government’s approach to science and technology.

The new-look DSIT will incorporate expertise from key digital and data organisations, including the Government Digital Service (GDS), Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO), and the Incubator for AI (i.AI). This consolidation is expected to streamline efforts in the digital transformation of public services under a single departmental umbrella.

The primary objective of this restructuring is to overhaul the British public's interaction with government services, making them more personalised, convenient, and time-efficient. One of the key initiatives includes developing a unified login system, allowing citizens to access various government services swiftly and securely.

The government said that the expanded DSIT aims to dismantle barriers to data sharing across the public sector, fostering a more integrated and efficient governmental ecosystem. The department is poised to become the digital centre of government, working in close collaboration with the Cabinet Office and the Treasury to maximise the potential of digital technologies, data, and AI in serving the British public.

Secretary of State Peter Kyle emphasised the importance of this move, stating, "Britain will not fully benefit from the social and economic potential of science and technology without government leading by example. DSIT is to become the centre for digital expertise and delivery in government, improving how the government and public services interact with citizens."

The department's expanded role includes supporting other government agencies in leveraging technology across various sectors such as energy, health, policing, and education. It will also focus on upskilling civil servants in the use of digital tools and AI in their frontline work, ensuring the government has the necessary infrastructure and regulations to embrace a more digital future.

Beyond its role in modernising government operations, DSIT is tasked with accelerating innovation, investment, and productivity through world-class science and research across the economy. The department will also oversee the safe development and deployment of technologies nationwide, with a focus on ensuring the benefits are widely shared among the population.

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