Prime Minister Keir Starmer is shifting the UK’s approach to artificial intelligence (AI) by prioritizing AI security over traditional safety concerns, aligning more closely with the policies of former U.S. President Donald Trump. This strategic pivot aims to strengthen UK-US relations and position the UK as a leader in AI security.
The UK’s AI Safety Institute, initially established with a £50 million budget to address AI safety issues, will be renamed the AI Security Institute. This rebranding reflects a focus on mitigating serious AI risks, moving away from concerns like bias and freedom of speech. This shift aligns with the U.S. administration’s preference for AI systems free from ideological bias and minimal regulation.
At the AI Summit in Paris, the UK and the U.S. declined to sign a communique emphasizing ethical and safe AI, a move supported by some UK officials as a strategic geopolitical signal. However, this decision has faced criticism from tech experts and civil society groups for potentially isolating the UK from its European allies and requiring significant concessions.
This policy shift signifies a substantial realignment in the UK’s AI strategy, focusing on security and aligning more closely with U.S. priorities, which may have significant implications for the UK’s AI policy and international diplomatic relations.