UK strengthens trade ties with US tech hubs

Minister David Willetts aims to further boost investment in East London

The UK continues to boost the profile of its tech drive in the East End of London by partnering with a major US tech hub in Massachusetts, second only in size to California's Silicon Valley.

Science minister David Willetts recently met with Massachusetts governor Deval Patrick who was on a three-day trade mission to the UK, which was attended by several technology companies.

Willetts said the visit should provide an insight for the UK tech sector into how to support development of technology and tech companies.

"Innovation and technology are vital to future economic growth, and we need to do everything we can to take Britain on the right path to a high-tech future," he said.

"Massachusetts has the second-largest technology hub outside California's Silicon Valley and is an important partner for Tech City in East London."

Prime minister David Cameron announced at the end of last year that the likes of Google, Facebook and BT are set to invest in the area.

The government is to invest £200m in technology and innovation centres over the next four years, and Cisco has also committed to a £309m investment.