The UK cannot afford to let artificial intelligence (AI) “wash over our economy and pick up the pieces afterwards,” the Science Secretary has warned as he prepares to launch the Government’s comprehensive AI strategy.

Peter Kyle, alongside Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will unveil the Government’s plans on Monday to promote tech innovation and boost economic growth.

Speaking ahead of the AI Action Plan launch, Kyle emphasized the need for inclusivity, ensuring people “from every background” can access and benefit from AI advancements. He acknowledged the inevitable “disruption” in the job market but pointed out that AI would also “create a lot of new jobs.”

Kyle stressed the importance of integrating safety into the AI growth strategy. “Safety is not something that is pitted against economic investment,” he stated, underscoring that wise AI usage could make work more “efficient, effective, and satisfying.”

He also noted that the plan would help mitigate job displacement by preparing the workforce for new roles created by AI.

Kyle urged proactive engagement with AI to position Britain at the “forefront” of innovation. “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,” he asserted, emphasizing the urgency of integrating AI into the nation’s economic framework to avoid falling behind other leading nations.

The AI Action Plan will introduce a “sovereign unit” to unify the sector and drive innovation. Kyle drew parallels to Silicon Valley, noting that Britain possesses “all of the constituent elements” but lacks cohesion.

“What we find is incredible innovation – we are very good at creating new products, services, and technologies – but so often when it gets to a certain size it has to go to America to get funded,”
Peter Kyle

The new unit, reporting directly to Kyle and the Prime Minister, aims to “coordinate and maximize these assets.”

Kyle has previously suggested that the UK could become an AI “sweet spot,” attracting significant investment and innovation that could reduce government costs and enhance economic growth. This ambition has gained urgency, especially with rising bond yields threatening Labour’s already constrained spending plans.

Balancing Growth with Safety

Despite the push for economic growth, Kyle maintained that safety standards would not be compromised. “None of our basic protections for children and vulnerable people are up for negotiation,” he told the Observer. He reaffirmed that “safety is not something that is pitted against economic investment,” highlighting the government’s commitment to safeguarding public interest even as it embraces cutting-edge technology.

The AI Action Plan will also tackle infrastructure challenges, such as the construction of data centers and the expansion of the electricity grid necessary for AI development. Additionally, it will address the technology’s substantial water requirements. Data centers, which need water for cooling, could face competition with drinking water demand during hot weather, posing a potential issue.

The Government’s strategy aims not only to foster innovation but also to ensure that AI development is sustainable and equitable. With the right measures in place, Britain could solidify its position as a global leader in AI, reaping the economic benefits while protecting its citizens from the potential downsides of rapid technological change.

As the Government prepares to roll out its AI strategy, the focus remains on fostering innovation while safeguarding the public, ensuring that Britain not only adapts to but also leads in the AI revolution.