Unlocking Blockchain: Embracing New Technologies to Drive Efficiency and Empower the Citizen

Abstract

With their innovative and fundamentally liberalising approach to data storage, distributive ledger technologies (DLTs) like blockchain—and other associated technologies offer immense benefits to both the public and private sectors, not least in terms of upping efficiency. Lovers of freedom should also note, however, that they offer an important chance to empower individuals in their necessary engagements with the state, and to rebuild societal trust for the common good. In this paper, we propose the establishment of a UK-based international blockchain competition, and a public-facing **‘Chief Blockchain Officer.’** We also propose a UK **‘blockchain departmental target’**: a long-term aim for government departments to make a 1% efficiency saving by embracing blockchain and other associated innovative technologies. A renewed UK focus on efficiency and the opportunities of new technology would be inspirational, and we look forward to discussing these proposals, and carrying out further research into Distributed Ledger Technologies.