Global IT infrastructure services provider Kyndryl will create 1,000 AI-related jobs in Liverpool city region in an investment announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Tony McDonough reports
US IT infrastructure services provider Kyndryl will help spearhead an artificial intelligence (AI) “revolution” in the UK with the new hub in Liverpool city region.
Announcing the investment on Sunday evening, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said it would lead to the creation of 1,000 jobs in Liverpool city region over the next three years. This is part of the UK-wide The AI Opportunities Action Plan that will see £14bn invested.
Kyndryl is a multinational business that was spun out of computer giant IBM. It designs, builds, manages, and develops large-scale information systems. The company was formed in 2021.
Promising to “relight the fires of innovation” Mr Starmer told the Liverpool ECHO: “Last November I visited Runcorn to announce 2,000 jobs in the region – thanks to our £22bn investment in Carbon Capture (HyNet hydrogen hub).
“Today I can announce that yet more jobs are coming as Kyndryl has committed to an extra 1,000 Al-related jobs over the next three years. It means working people – from the Wirral to St Helens – will feel the change we promised.
“I promised that I would turbocharge this great region, and here is the proof. Working hand in hand with Mayor Steve Rotheram, today’s announcement shows how Labour in power is delivering for working people.”
Shortly after winning the General Election in July 2024, the Government tasked AI advisor Matt Clifford with creating a UK action plan for artificial intelligence. He came back with 50 recommendations.
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On Sunday the Prime Minister said AI can “transform the lives of working people” and has the potential to speed up planning consultations to get Britain building, drive down admin for teachers and feed AI through cameras to spot potholes and help improve roads.
He explained: “AI will drive incredible change in our country. From teachers personalising lessons, to supporting small businesses with their record-keeping, to speeding up planning applications, it has the potential to transform the lives of working people.
“But the AI industry needs a Government that is on their side, one that won’t sit back and let opportunities slip through its fingers. And in a world of fierce competition, we cannot stand by. We must move fast and take action to win the global race.
“Our plan will make Britain the world leader. It will give the industry the foundation it needs and will turbocharge the Plan for Change.
“That means more jobs and investment in the UK, more money in people’s pockets, and transformed public services. That’s the change this government is delivering.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves added: “This action plan is the government’s modern industrial strategy in action.
“Attracting AI businesses to the UK, bringing in new investment, creating new jobs and turbocharging our Plan for Change. This means better living standards in every part of the United Kingdom and working people have more money in their pocket.”
