New world leading approach to AI in the UK

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a significant driver of innovation and productivity for modern supply chains in the UK.

Based on a white paper published at the beginning of April 2023, the government is developing a strategic vision for AI in the UK, identifying AI as one of five critical technologies and noting the role of regulation in creating the environment for AI to flourish.

The potential of AI to transform all areas of life is immense, so the UK needs to act quickly to remain at the forefront of international AI governance by demonstrating the value of its pragmatic, proportionate regulatory approach, which is particularly important for attracting investment and creating high-skilled AI jobs.

The government has proposed a framework of five principles to guide and inform the responsible development and use of AI in all sectors of the economy:

• Safety, security and robustness
• Appropriate transparency and explainability
• Fairness
• Accountability and governance
• and Contestability and redress.

This framework will bring clarity and coherence to the AI regulatory landscape and build public confidence in AI usage.

The government proposes several central support functions ensuring the overall regulatory framework is effective and offers a proportionate response to risk while promoting innovation. These support functions include framework monitoring and evaluation, risk assessment, horizon scanning, gap analysis, testbeds and sandbox initiatives, education and awareness, and interoperability promotion with international regulatory frameworks.

The business case for employing AI in businesses today is clear. AI has the potential to drive growth and prosperity, create new jobs, and reduce costs. By providing a clear and unified approach to regulation, the proposed framework will build trust in AI and incentivise responsible innovation.

According to the government, a unified approach to regulation will make the UK an attractive place for AI companies and ensure that UK businesses can capitalise on global markets and protect citizens from cross-border harms.

Conclusion

Zengi believes the government's proposal for a unified approach to artificial intelligence (AI) regulation is a valuable step in creating an environment where AI can flourish and drive innovation and productivity for modern supply chains in the UK. The five principles outlined will bring clarity and coherence to the AI regulatory landscape and build public confidence.

If correctly implemented, the proposed support functions will ensure an overall regulatory framework to provide a proportionate response to potential risks. The business case for employing AI in businesses today is clear, so the government's proposal will further incentivise responsible innovation making the UK an attractive place for AI businesses.