A coalition of six prominent UK digital economy trade associations has urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration to take decisive action in shaping the future of digital assets and blockchain technology. In a letter dated March 31, the group called for the appointment of a dedicated crypto envoy and the development of a comprehensive government strategy to support the sector’s growth.
The appeal, addressed to Varun Chandra, Starmer’s special adviser on business and investment, highlighted the need for a stronger strategic focus to unlock investment, stimulate job creation, and boost innovation in the crypto space. The coalition includes the UK Cryptoasset Business Council, Global Digital Finance, The Payments Association, the Digital Currencies Governance Group, the Crypto Council for Innovation, and techUK.
The letter emphasized the momentum in the United States, referencing recent moves by the Trump administration to appoint a dedicated “crypto czar.” It encouraged the UK to adopt a similar approach in order to maintain its competitiveness in emerging financial technologies.
“The UK’s commitment to a tech-centric trade agreement with the US presents a valuable opportunity to align ambitions and demonstrate leadership in digital finance,” the letter noted.
Among the key recommendations were the creation of a blockchain envoy to coordinate national policy, a concierge service to attract high-growth crypto firms, and a cross-sector forum that brings together government, regulators, and industry leaders. The group also called for integration of blockchain with other frontier technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing to enhance government services.
According to the coalition, embracing digital assets could boost the UK economy by £57 billion ($73.6 billion) within the next decade. Globally, the technology is projected to increase GDP by £1.39 trillion ($1.8 trillion) by 2030.
Tom Griffiths, co-founder of crypto compliance firm BitCompli, supported the initiative, noting on LinkedIn that while the UK has regulatory talent, it is falling behind more agile jurisdictions like Dubai and Singapore. “Now is the time for the FCA to act,” Griffiths warned, “or the UK risks missing out on the long-term economic benefits of the digital asset revolution.”
