Angel Alberich-Bayarri, Co-founder and CEO of Quibim, offers his take on how a potential government change could impact UK businesses, especially in tech and healthcare. As a leader in medical imaging AI, Alberich-Bayarri brings a unique perspective to the table. In this interview, he discusses R&D tax credits, data sharing regulations, and the role of technology in the NHS. He also shares his thoughts on addressing workforce challenges and maintaining the UK’s competitive edge in the global tech landscape. Alberich-Bayarri’s insights provide a glimpse into the opportunities and hurdles facing innovative companies in Britain today.

If we see a new government next month, what’s the one big change you’re hoping for that could really benefit businesses in your sector?

If a new government comes into power next month, the one significant change I would hope for that could greatly benefit businesses, especially startups in the tech sector, is a revision of the R&D tax credit policy. The current policy, set to reduce the payable tax credit for SMEs from 33% to 19%, can be understood as if these funds are not going to be ‘returned’ to them, and could have a detrimental impact on the UK’s startup and innovation ecosystem. Startups rely heavily on these credits to fund
further research and development, hire additional personnel, and purchase new equipment. By reinstating or even increasing the R&D tax credits for SMEs, the government could foster innovation, support scientific jobs, and maintain the UK’s competitiveness in strategically important sectors like deeptech, climate tech, and biotech. This change would not only help startups but also contribute to the broader goal of establishing the UK as a science superpower.

There’s always talk about cutting red tape. What’s a regulation you think needs a fresh look, and how would you like to see it changed? 

One regulation that I believe needs a fresh look is the data sharing regulations across institutions. In the current regulatory framework, there are significant barriers to the efficient and secure sharing of data between healthcare institutions. This limitation hinders collaborative efforts, slows down research, and affects the quality of patient care.

There is a need to establish clear, standardised protocols for data formats and communication methods to ensure interoperability across various healthcare systems. The implementation of advanced security measures such as end-to-end encryption and robust authentication processes to protect patient data while enabling sharing would also improve the process. Regulations should
mandate regular security audits and compliance checks. Providing regulatory support and clear guidelines to help early-stage startups integrate into the NHS supply chain, would be greatly beneficial. This could include offering mentorship programs, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and creating pilot programs to test and implement innovative solutions quickly. Develop regulations that promote the use of technology and innovative tools to address staffing shortages. For example, telemedicine platforms, AI-assisted diagnostics, and remote monitoring tools could help relieve pressure on healthcare professionals, especially in specialized fields like oncology and radiology.


By addressing these areas, we can enhance the efficiency, security, and effectiveness of data sharing across healthcare institutions, foster innovation in the supply chain, and alleviate staffing pressures. These changes will ultimately lead to improved patient outcomes and a more resilient healthcare system.

We keep hearing about plans for boosting the economy. What kind of support or initiatives do you think this would actually make a difference for businesses like yours?

Any master plan made by politicians to boost the economy has to be carefully considered, because even if it is designed for one purpose or domain, it can backfire in others. I am more in favour of letting the free market evolve while the government makes conspicuous actions to solve technical bottlenecks, such as promoting data sharing, systems interoperability, and leveraging technology to enhance the National Health Service (NHS), which we think is essential. Encouraging labour dedicated to health IT, including NHS professionals managing systems like electronic health records (EHR), to be open to new AI-based cloud services would bring a significant leap forward. The UK is in a prime position to reap the benefits of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and use these tools to improve services such as the NHS.

    Leveraging technology to enhance the NHS brings significant benefits, including financial savings, improved patient outcomes, and overall efficiency. Ground-breaking AI research enables quicker and more accurate diagnoses, such as detecting cancer and diagnosing rare diseases, which allows for timely interventions and reduces the need for expensive treatments. Streamlined diagnostic processes help reduce waiting lists, leading to better health outcomes and improved healthcare delivery. Early detection and intervention prevent costly complications, free up clinician time for patient care, and contribute to a healthier, more productive workforce, thereby positively impacting the economy and freeing resources for other essential services. In summary, technology in the NHS saves money, enhances patient care, reduces waiting times, and benefits society as a whole. Labour’s tech agenda also proposes the creation of a Regulatory Innovation Office aimed at enhancing accountability and encouraging cross-sector regulatory innovation. We have to analyse the benefits that this builds on top of current UKCA clearance pathway and make sure we are not adding more bureaucratic processes that could be translated in only big corporates with resources being able to deploy their innovations.

    Skills and workforce are hot topics. What’s your take on the current situation, and what
    would you tell the new PM needs fixing first?

    The current situation in the workforce, especially in healthcare, is marked by a shortage of skilled professionals, such as radiologists. AI has the potential to positively impact this sector by assisting in medical image analysis, enhancing accuracy, and reducing diagnostic times. This can help address the shortage by amplifying the capabilities of existing radiologists and improving patient care. To the new Prime Minister, it’s crucial to invest in AI technologies and training programs that enable healthcare professionals to work effectively with AI. This approach ensures that technology supports service delivery without displacing workers. Additionally, maintaining robust data protection measures is essential to preserve public trust and allow technological advancements to benefit both patients and healthcare providers.

    With all the global uncertainty, how do you think a change in government might affect UK
    businesses on the world stage? Any opportunities you’re eyeing?

    The UK’s tech sector is recognised as one of the best globally, and despite the current global uncertainty, a change in government is unlikely to significantly disrupt UK businesses on the world stage. This is due to the alignment in policies, especially around start-ups and the technology sector, between potential governments, which could ensure continuity and stability. Opportunities may arise from leveraging the UK’s technological prowess to innovate and compete internationally, or through new trade agreements and partnerships that a new government might establish. It’s important to note that fostering an environment conducive to R&D and innovation is crucial for long-term economic growth and maintaining the UK’s competitive edge in technology. It is likely to be one of the smoother transitions of power this year.