Microsoft: Prices
(asked on 28th February 2025) - View Source
Question to the Department for Business and Trade:
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of Microsoft's increase in prices for Office 365.
Answered by
Gareth Thomas
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)
The Department for Business and Trade has not conducted a formal assessment on Microsoft's price increase for Office 365.
Microsoft cites the addition of advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities as the main reason for higher prices. Digital technologies, including AI, are an important way to improve business efficiency. We are exploring ways to boost uptake through the SME Digital Adoption Taskforce, Technology Adoption Review, and AI Opportunities Action Plan. We also provide a range of other support for small businesses, from the Business Support Service to local Growth Hubs.