The UK government has announced that it will consider implementing binding requirements for companies developing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems. This decision was made in response to the government’s AI whitepaper consultation, which was published in March 2023. The whitepaper proposed a regulatory framework that empowers existing regulators to create specific rules tailored to the use of AI in different sectors. The government also plans to invest over £100 million in AI safety-related projects and research hubs across the UK.
The whitepaper outlined five principles that regulators should consider to promote the safe and innovative use of AI. It builds upon the government’s national AI strategy, which aims to drive the adoption of AI by businesses, enhance skills in the field, and attract international investment. The government received 406 submissions from various stakeholders during the public consultation, and it reaffirmed its commitment to the whitepaper’s proposals.
The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) stated that the technology of AI is rapidly evolving, and the potential risks and appropriate mitigations are not yet fully understood. Therefore, the government is taking a cautious approach and will not rush to legislate or implement quick-fix rules that may soon become outdated. Instead, the government aims to empower existing regulators to create context-specific rules that align with the evolving use of AI.
Overall, the UK government’s response to the AI whitepaper consultation emphasizes the importance of responsible and safe AI innovation. By considering targeted binding requirements for AI companies and investing in AI safety-related projects, the government aims to ensure that the UK remains agile in the field of AI and becomes a leader in responsible AI development.
