Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that young skilled workers remain in the UK, particularly in the cyber industries.

The Government are delivering several initiatives to support young skilled workers enter and remain working in cyber industries in the UK. Alongside bootcamps and apprenticeships, we provide sector specific initiatives aimed at fostering talent and providing clear career pathways for the cyber sector.

The CyberFirst programme supports young people aged 11 to 25 with a range of educational courses, competitions and events, designed to develop tech skills and inspire interest in cyber careers. The CyberFirst bursary scheme provides a clear route to support UK talent into cyber jobs with 87% of bursary graduates now working in the cyber sector.

The UK Cyber Security Council, the professional body for the cyber workforce, is making it easier for young people to understand how to enter and navigate a career in cyber industries. The Government supports the work of the Council with grant funding.

We are also supporting young entrepreneurs and researchers to develop cyber products and companies through initiatives like CyberASAP and CyberRunway. These programmes offer resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities to help young people develop innovative ideas and contribute to the UK cyber sector.