Guita Blake, SVP & Head of Europe for Mindtree made the following comment in response to today’s news that the government will launch a fast-track visa scheme for scientists, researchers and mathematicians.

“The news today that the government will launch a fast-track visa scheme for scientists, researchers and mathematicians is a crucial step towards ensuring the UK remains a leader in STEM careers. Businesses are continuing to gain value from adoption of technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning, but this can only work if we have the best talent in the world in our market.

A recent survey of ours found that 77% of businesses have implemented some AI-related technologies in the workplace, which highlights the growing demand for high-skilled workers. 44% of respondents said they will hire the best talent available externally, so it is important that the UK acts as an enabler to technological evolution if it wants to remain competitive in the global market and not a barrier to talent.”