Robots have put 1.3 million Londoners' jobs at risk

Those most at risk are roles that involve routine tasks

Clare Hutchison
Tuesday 15 September 2015 16:04 EDT
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Robots and machines have been replacing workers in car factories for years (Getty)
Robots and machines have been replacing workers in car factories for years (Getty) (Johannes Simon/Getty Images)

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Robots could soon put 1.3 million Londoners at high risk of losing their jobs.

That's the view of Deloitte, who analysed Labour market data and found a growing number of London-based jobs are in the firing line thanks to new technology that can automatically carry out tasks.

Those most at risk a Those most at risk are roles that involve routine tasks re roles that involve routine tasks that could easily be performed by machines.

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But Deloitte said Londoners shouldn't panic as so far greater automation in the workplace has boosted the capital.

There is evidence to suggest that London-based companies are responding to the rise of the machines and creating more jobs that are less likely to be replaced.

Better yet that type of work pays on average £10,000 more than the roles that robots may take over.

"Our work shows the automation of jobs – and a shift from brawn to brains - is well underway in London, but we appear to be benefitting not losing out," said Angus Knowles-Cutler, Deloitte vice chairman and London senior partner.

"In line with the advances in technology and automation we expect to see in the next twenty years, high-risk, routine occupations are being dwarfed in our local economy by very strong growth in those jobs at less risk of automation.

"In addition, we are seeing increased economic value from these new jobs."

Still, Knowles-Cutler advised companies, teachers and the Government to ensure that London's young people are equipped with the right skills to take these jobs.

"Business, educators and government must work together to ensure young people enter London’s workforce with the skills suited to the jobs of tomorrow," he added.

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