UK must not let AI ‘wash over our economy’, says Science Secretary

Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The UK cannot let AI “wash over our economy and pick up the pieces afterwards”, the Science Secretary has said as he prepares to launch the Government’s plans for the technology. Safety is not something that is pitted against economic investment Science Secretary Peter Kyle He said: “If it’s used wisely, it will make workers’ lives in the workplace much more efficient, effective and satisfying.” But he also stressed the need to seize the opportunities presented by AI and place Britain in the “forefront” of innovation, saying: “I’m not someone who thinks we should just sit back and let this technology wash over our economy and pick up the pieces afterwards.” While the details of the AI Action Plan will be revealed on Monday, Mr Kyle said it would include a “sovereign unit” that would bring the sector together to encourage innovation. “What we want to do is bring those things together and coordinate it with a new unit that reports directly to myself and the Prime Minister so that we can bring together and make the most of these assets.” Mr Kyle has previously said the UK could become an AI “sweet spot”, attracting the sort of investment and innovation that could cut government costs and boost economic growth. On Sunday, he told the Observer: “None of our basic protections for children and vulnerable people are up for negotiation… Safety is not something that is pitted against economic investment.” Monday’s action plan is also expected to address infrastructure concerns, including how the UK will build the data centres and electricity grid necessary for AI innovation.