Microsoft and the British government sign a multi-year technology agreement

By James On Oct 21, 2024

The UK government has signed a major deal with Microsoft, giving organizations across the country access to more powerful AI tools.

Speaking at the company’s Microsoft AI Tour London event, the pair unveiled a five-year partnership that they hope will give public sector companies the opportunity to tap into the latest Microsoft technology, including the Copilot AI platform.

Going forward, the partnership will give public sector organizations access to better deals and cost savings across the entire Microsoft portfolio, including Microsoft 365, Azure cloud platform, enterprise applications and, for the first time, Microsoft 365 Copilot.

Microsoft deal with the British government

The UK government believes this will help organizations increase their efficiency and productivity at a time when many are under pressure to make cuts and ensure agility.

It is also hoped that it can help address the digital skills gap in AI, which has become a major talking point as use of the technology in the business world skyrockets.

The UK government is also aiming to build a new generation of cloud services to support its digital transformation, and Microsoft will do its part by offering support and its AI technology.

“AI technologies offer a unique opportunity to transform public services and drive Britain’s economic growth,” said Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK.

“This exciting new five-year partnership means Microsoft can continue to support the UK Government in creating a world-class digital infrastructure for the public sector, which will improve services for citizens across the UK and create opportunities for all. .”