Technology industry needs to be creative in the face of Brexit

industry and whether changes to the free movement of workers in the UK might alter the look of the tech landscape in the future.

The multinational and multicultural nature of the UK technology industry is one of its main attractions.

With such a diverse workforce, many employers are asking what can be done to ensure that, in a post-Brexit age, businesses are still able to continue resourcing talent from across Europe.

Until the UK formally triggers the Brexit process by invoking article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, there will be no change to the status quo. It is important to remind employees of the diversity and dignities at work policies in the context of any discussion about Brexit.

Employers need to consider taking practical steps now, so they are not caught out when negotiations have been finalised. Such steps include: Evaluating the current workforce: be clear about the current immigration status of your workforce so you can identify any areas where you may rely heavily on migrants workers;

Auditing compliance with existing immigration rules: ensure that you are fully compliant with all existing immigration rules in the UK;

Keeping up to date with developments: the issue of free movement is likely to be a main discussion point throughout negotiations;

Understanding the parameters and time-limits for business visitors to the UK: this is particularly relevant for the technology industry where regular worldwide travel is commonplace.

The tech industry’s ability to adapt and be creative in its approach to regulatory change will be fundamental in keeping large global technology corporations and talent here in the UK for years to come.

Robert Forsyth, DLA Piper Sponsored column