Should Government be sceptics or visionaries?

Is it harsh to ask this question of Government when it comes to technology? Surely we want Government to embark on all policy decisions with an open mind, gather the evidence, hear all the stakeholders, then make an informed decision on the best way forward. We'd probably also like them to have a vision for what's best for the UK and a healthy level of scepticism that ensures they don't just listen to the loudest voices. In fact they need to be everything to everyone! Not an easy job then and having a vision could be politically dangerous if you are forced to change you mind.

Policymaking is probably even more difficult when it comes to technology and in particular infrastructure deployment and standards. Outlining a vision is even more difficult. This was highlighted at the BSG conference on Monday when the "sceptic or visionary" question was posed to BERR regarding the need for Next Generation Broadband (NGB) deployment. BERR appeared to come down firmly in the sceptic’s camp before later clarifying that they were in fact strong believers in NGB but needed more evidence before deciding on any policy interventions. Understandable but for a large industry and public sector audience looking for strong, positive leadership the language wasn't quite what they were after, especially for what is a no-brainer for UK competitiveness.

The pace of technological change will keep on making life difficult for the policy makers and regulators but we have sometimes looked enviously at other countries seemingly more decisive moves eg South Korean NGB deployment, French decision on mandating MPEG4 receivers for Terrestrial HDTV from late this year. There is no doubt the UK has suffered from first-mover disadvantage in some areas while other countries have sat tight and can now make the leap to the next generation technology unhindered by legacy infrastructures. However, a clear, well communicated vision from Government regarding the digital infrastructures and technology the UK needs, backed by action, must be best for everyone.