What we’ve learned from our leaders at London Tech Week
London Tech Week is in full swing this week in the UK’s capital city. It shouldn’t surprise you that the most ardent supporters of AI (artificial intelligence) are out in force, but it’s becoming abundantly clear that the nation’s leaders are too. Artificial intelligence is at the top of the agenda. A lot is going on at the event – the organisers are on a mission to unite global tech to drive sustainable innovation – and the UK’s ambitions for AI are clearly at the front of everyone’s minds.
Of course, it’s a contentious topic.
As reported by Computer Weekly, there’s a lot of noise at the tech event, but managing editor Cliff Saran has been able to seek out some valuable soundbites. Firstly, it’s clear that it’s not just the Conservative Party that thinks that the UK should (and can be) a contender when it comes to artificial intelligence; there has been plenty of talk regarding regulation recently. As the rhetoric regarding AI has soured in recent months, it’s refreshing to see our leaders take a bold, proactive stance.
“Deciphering the politician soundbites during London Tech Week shows that both the Tories and Labour are headed by party leaders who want to be seen as supporters of artificial intelligence.” – Cliff Saran
UK’s Ambitions for AI
That’s not to say the Conservatives are the only ones with a stance. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reiterated this week that he believes artificial intelligence is a pro for business and a pro for innovation, whilst Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is erring on the side of caution – will sharing the public’s misgivings gain him votes? The leader of the opposition believes that “staggering percentages” of jobs are at risk from AI; he wants policymakers to be clear about what is being done to rescue at-risk jobs.
In recent times, the Conservatives have taken a troubling, stark approach to UK immigration, but officials have, time and time again, noted the need for AI experts and other so-called “high potential” and “global talent” individuals. Sunak can’t have his cake and eat it too.
Politics versus progress
Artificial intelligence is, of course, a concern, but is it all smoke and mirrors for more pressing concerns, like climate change? The “Big Two” are digging their trenches ready for the next general election, but AI isn’t something to be hotly debated for months to come – change needs to come swiftly. As noted by Computer Weekly, the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act is a milestone in the history of how we react to this burgeoning technology. Just as MidJourney can paint a masterpiece in 60 seconds, our response needs to match it.
Goldman Sachs’ predictions – 300 million jobs may be lost or degraded by the technology – is undeniably bleak, but we can’t pretend that a sea change isn’t on the way. Sunak and Starmer are about to go to the mat over artificial intelligence’s influence on our economy and infrastructure.
What do you think? Should the Conservatives be more open about AI’s threat? Should Starmer lighten up? You tell us.
Source: The takeaways from London Tech Week.
Image supplied from London Tech Week.
Want more from London Tech Week? Read London Tech Week: Unraveling the Role of AI in Education.
