Reforming government: can blockchain deliver real change?

Recently, Tim and I attended the London Blockchain Conference event, focused on discussing how to unlock the potential of blockchain to drive efficiency in the public sector.

The promise of blockchain for government transformation

As governments worldwide race to catch up with technological innovation and navigate digital transformation, blockchain is increasingly being recognised as a tool that can enable transparent, secure, and accountable public sector operations.

What is blockchain and why does it matter

Blockchain is a decentralised digital ledger that securely stores records across a network of computers in a way that is transparent, immutable, and resistant to tampering. In small cases, it is being used globally to drive better service and efficiency within public services. The question on everyone’s lips at the event was “How do we make blockchain work in the public sector?”

The cost of outdated technology in public services

The recent state of digital government review highlighted that taxpayer-funded services, from the NHS to local councils, are missing out on £45 billion in productivity savings – more than enough to pay for every primary school in the UK for a full year – because they are too often dependent on outdated technology.

This outdated technology was displayed at the event, with the air conditioning at the historic and grand House of Lords unable to cope with the boiling temperatures on a July afternoon.

Reforming government with transparency, trust, and technology

The event was centred on a roundtable discussion moderated by Alun Cairns, Former Member of Parliament & Secretary of State of Wales. The panel included:

• Richard Baker, CEO, Tokenovate
• Jennifer Ewing, Institutional Business Development, Blockchain.com
• Nikhil Vagdama, Director, Exponential Science
• Tim Daley, Strategy and Transformation Director, Perago

Global examples of blockchain in action

Discussions explored the role of blockchain in enhancing transparency and driving innovation across the public sector. Examples included the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Estonia, and West Africa, showcasing how blockchain has driven better public outcomes.

Blockchain’s potential to increase transparency in government was widely recognised. The mass implementation of Blockchain has perhaps not been helped by its close association with cryptocurrencies. However, just as websites use the web, cryptocurrencies use blockchain as a platform.

Whilst the discussion focused on blockchain’s power and potential, we brought a balance of the realities of embedding technology within the public sector and the challenges that come with change management.

Foundational principles for blockchain success

Tim highlighted several foundational principles necessary for successful blockchain implementation:

• Legislation – Clear regulation and oversight
• Standards – Consistency and compatibility
• Operating Model – Defined roles and governance
• Leadership – Courage to challenge the status quo
• Capacity – Resources to support adoption

Real-World applications: blockchain in healthcare

One key benefit discussed was blockchain timestamps. I raised the example of nurses recording observations on paper and discharging patients with printed medication details. Blockchain could streamline this process, but legacy systems and ingrained practices pose challenges.

Like most things involving new technology, adoption is often led by people with the appetite for change and the willingness to challenge traditional ways of working.

Looking ahead: supporting public sector transformation

Blockchain holds real potential, and we look forward to supporting public sector organisations with the practical delivery of tangible examples to create better service outcomes and enhance efficiencies.

It was also great to visit two brilliant venues filled with history and tradition, and a real honour to visit the House of Lords and the Churchill War Rooms!