Brexit: International workers are rejecting London tech firms

Two-thirds of tech entrepreneurs believe Brexit has already damaged London's reputation as a leading startup centre

The majority of London's tech community believe most future investment will come from North America rather than Europe

A third of London’s tech companies have lost out on international hires due to Britain’s decision to leave the European Union last year, according to a new survey.

Industry body Tech London Advocates said almost two thirds of tech entrepreneurs believe Brexit has already damaged the capital’s international reputation as a leading tech hub.

Despite the findings, over half of the 5,400 tech founders surveyed believed London remains the best place in Europe to start a tech company.

The majority of London’s tech community also believes that future investment in the capital’s tech sector will come from North America rather than Europe.

“Entrepreneurs are defined by their ability to turn challenges into opportunities and the sentiment across London’s tech sector is increasingly one of determination, conviction and ambition”, said Russ Shaw, founder of Tech London Advocates.

“Slowing down access to European talent will make growing a tech company harder, but London is focused on strengthening its relationship with tech hubs across Europe and around the world that are already fuelling our investment pipeline.”

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Tuesday that the UK is to double the number of visas available to workers in tech and science after Brexit.

Tech giants including Facebook, Google and Amazon have all announced plans to open London offices since the Brexit vote, but have cited the challenge of attracting top talent.