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Government targets global experts with £54m fund to fill UK skills gap

The Global Talent Taskforce is set up to focus on bringing in researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, managers, engineers and creatives. 

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Government targets global experts with £54m fund to fill UK skills gap
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The Government has launched a new push to attract skilled workers and experts from around the world, backed by £54m over five years. 

The money will help leading universities and research organisations cover relocation and research costs for world-class teams moving to the UK.

The Global Talent Taskforce is set up to focus on bringing in researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, managers, engineers and creatives. 

Rukhsana Shaikh, recruitment consultant at Barrow Mount, said: “This kind of direct investment sends a strong message that the UK is serious about competing for the best global talent.

“It’s not just about relocation support – it’s about creating a welcome and opportunity-rich environment for people who can make a real difference.”

The move comes before the launch of the Government’s new industrial strategy, and is aimed at boosting British talent with specialist skills from overseas. 

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The plan also links to recent changes in the immigration system, including more options for high potential visas and fast-tracking talent in fast-growing sectors like science and technology.

The global talent fund will be allocated by UKRI in the coming weeks. 

Leading research organisations will target and select talent in line with the Government’s industrial priorities. 

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The Government says these steps should help create more investment and skilled jobs across the UK, alongside tighter border controls.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “A key part of our Plan for Change is making sure Britain is the best place in the world to do business – we are a strong, connected market and have a lot to offer the best and the most inventive minds.

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“Competition for elite global talent is high, and by establishing this Taskforce we are solidifying our position as the first choice for the world’s brightest sparks, as well as turbocharging innovation in medicines and inventions of the future, boosting British business and putting money in working people’s pockets.”

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Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Genius is not bound by geography. But the UK is one of the few places blessed with the infrastructure, skills base, world-class institutions and international ties needed to fertilise brilliant ideas, and turn them into new medicines that save lives, new products that make our lives easier, and even entirely new jobs and industries.

“These endeavours are the Plan for Change writ large.

“My message to those who are advancing new ideas, wherever they are, is simple. We want to work with you, to support you, and to give you a home where you can make your ideas a reality we all benefit from.”

The taskforce will report directly to the Prime Minister and Chancellor. 

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Its jobs include supporting people to relocate, identifying and approaching top talent, and building a pipeline through the UK’s international networks.

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