London emerging as Europe's leading digital city

LONDON, UK: The British capital is fast emerging as Europe's leading digital city and a new technology hub dubbed "Tech City" has led to the creation of 1,300 new high-tech jobs, London Mayor Boris Johnson has said.

In one year of its creation, the number of companies in the Tech City has increased threefold. The Tech City, which celebrated its first anniversary Nov 10, is now home to 600 companies, said a British government statement.

London's promotional agency London and Partners has also helped set up 130 new high- tech companies in the capital.

It said London is already home to three times more software and IT companies than any other European city.

For the growing digital economy in London, the key attractions are access to huge markets, great connectivity, a skilled work force and proximity to other world class creative industries such as film, advertising and fashion.

"London's is leading the charge on Europe's digital boom. Across the capital, hundreds of new technology businesses have emerged with an exciting cluster bursting into life in Tech City," Johnson said.

"I want to see London continue to shine as a beacon for the world's best creative minds and entrepreneurs so that this emerging sector benefits the whole of London, delivering new skills, jobs and investment."

London & Partners is the official promotional organisation for London. It is a not-for-profit organisation, funded by the mayor and other commercial partners. Its aim is to unlock the city for overseas businesses who want to set up or expand in London and promote the capital's universities to international students.