ILC ARTICLE

Government sets out AI rules

25th July 2022

The government is publishing a new AI white paper outlining its approach to regulating the technology in the UK.

This follows research earlier in the year that predicted more than 1.3 million UK businesses will be using AI by 2040, and investing over £200bn in the technology.

The new AI Action Plan is intended to support businesses develop AI systems while reassuring consumers that that the technology is safe and robust.

It focuses on six core principles which regulators such as Ofcom and The Competitions Market Authority will be expected to follow: ensuring that AI is used safely; that it is technically secure; that it is transparent and explainable; that it is implemented fairly; that liability for the system is clearly defined; that routes are available for redress.

Digital Minister Damian Collins said, “We want to make sure the UK has the right rules to empower businesses and protect people as AI and the use of data keeps changing the ways we live and work.

“It is vital that our rules offer clarity to businesses, confidence to investors and boost public trust. Our flexible approach will help us shape the future of AI and cement our global position as a science and tech superpower.”

Industry experts, academics and civil society organisations are now being invited to share their views through a call for evidence as the government continues to develop a framework around AI.

Professor Dame Wendy Hall, Acting Chair of the AI Council, said, “We welcome these important early steps to establish a clear and coherent approach to regulating AI. This is critical to driving responsible innovation and supporting our AI ecosystem to thrive. The AI Council looks forward to working with government on the next steps to develop the White Paper.”