A group of major technology companies has called on the government to appoint “digital ministers” in its departments to ensure the UK is at the forefront of digital skills.

TechUK - which represents more than 850 companies, has said that special  Entrepreneurs' Visas would attract talent to the UK and making the digital economy a priority both within and outside London and the South East would benefit the UK economy as a whole.

"This government has made significant investments which are having an effect, but you can't stand still," said Julian David, chief executive of TechUK.

"Now is an opportunity to set out specific comprehensive suggestions of what needs to be worked on during the life of the next parliament, in order to secure our digital future."

Other calls to action include measures to strengthen the pipeline of home grown skills and a clear target of doubling UK tech exports by 2020.