
British Standards Institution study uncovers numerous businesses skipping AI safeguards. The research revealed that fewer than 25% of companies (24%) have established an AI governance program. Among larger enterprises, this percentage rises slightly to one-third.

This week’s M&A activity spanned consumer wellness, technology infrastructure, managed services, market infrastructure, and financial markets. From Supreme’s expansion into diet brands to the London Stock Exchange Group’s strategic restructuring, UK companies focused on repositioning for scale, efficiency, and capability rather than outright size.

UK greenhouse gas emissions fell by 0.5% in 2024. The decline was driven by reduced manufacturing emissions, but transport and household emissions increased, highlighting the need for circularity in climate plans.

UK manufacturing rebounds as activity reaches two-month high. The latest PMI from S&P Global indicates a rise in business activity, with manufacturing hitting a 13-month high. However, the economy remains fragile, with concerns over falling exports and upcoming budget impacts.

OpenAI partners with UK Ministry of Justice to enhance AI use. The agreement allows 2,500 civil servants to access ChatGPT, aiming to modernise public services. It forms part of the UK’s AI Action Plan, enhancing sovereign AI capabilities and increasing efficiency.

UK financial system faces rising geopolitical and cyber threats. Nikhil Rathi, FCA Chief Executive, warns of inadequate preparedness against threats affecting financial stability, insurance coverage, and systemic risks, urging enhanced collaboration and investment to bolster resilience and operational strength.

Labour considers granting unions weekly workplace access, facing criticism. The proposed Employment Rights Bill could fine employers up to £75,000 for denying union access. Critics argue it empowers unions excessively, while supporters claim it benefits workers in insecure jobs.

The UK’s tech ambition demands more than innovation. It must be secure by design. Sabeen Malik, VP of Global Government Affairs and Public Policy at Rapid7, argues that voluntary security codes will not deliver the resilience Britain needs. True progress depends on mandatory, measurable frameworks developed through meaningful public–private collaboration.

MPs urge urgent AI upskilling for civil servants. A new report highlights digital skill gaps in government leading to inefficiencies. Upskilling is essential for effective AI use and improved public services, warns the Public Accounts Committee.

Sixty per cent of security leaders see supply chain risks as unmanageable. A new IO study reveals that confidence in cybersecurity response far exceeds real-world resilience, as 61 per cent of organisations suffered third-party breaches in the past year, driving financial losses and customer disruption across the board.