UKAI publishes the 'Regulating AI in the UK' report
UKAI has issued a bold call to government for the artificial intelligence economy in the UK, urging immediate regulatory clarity to secure the UK’s position as a global leader in AI innovation. As the UK’s only AI trade association representing the whole AI economy, a new report warns that ambiguity around AI regulations is eroding business confidence, stifling investment, and holding back transformative services for customers across the UK.
In a high-profile roundtable at the House of Lords, UKAI convened an influential mix of leaders from tech giants, startups, consumer brands, academia, and investors to chart a path for AI’s role in economic growth and social progress. The discussions revealed an urgent need for a regulatory framework that blends innovation-friendly policies with robust safeguards, striking a balance between the EU’s stringent rules and the US’s laissez-faire approach.
“Burdening the AI sector with overregulation, underinvestment, or fear of the unknown isn’t just a missed opportunity – it’s a direct threat to Britain’s competitiveness on the global stage,” said Matt Warman, former AI Minister and UKAI Advisory Board member.
The report, “Regulating AI in the UK,” outlines a vision for the UK to become the gold standard in AI regulation, with recommendations that include:
- AI Regulation Inquiry: A comprehensive investigation into the rapidly evolving AI landscape, emerging international policies, and the specific needs of UK businesses.
- Dedicated AI Governance: Suggestions include creating a standalone AI regulator, issuing clear guidance for SMEs, and appointing AI Officers (AIOs) to streamline governance.
- Ethical Seal of Approval: An industry-wide certification akin to B-Corp for companies adopting transparent, diverse, and inclusive AI practices.
- Educational Partnerships: Working with universities to create regulatory sandboxes and embedding AI-related technical and ethical training into education from an early age.
As the Government prepares its long-awaited AI Opportunities Action Plan and the forthcoming AI Bill, UKAI positions itself as a key partner in shaping a forward-thinking, pragmatic regulatory framework.
For industry insiders, academics, and policymakers, this report is more than a roadmap – it’s a rallying cry for Britain to seize the AI moment and establish itself as a beacon of global best practice. The full 30-page report, available to UKAI members, details actionable insights to ensure the UK’s AI sector thrives in a way that is fair, ethical, and economically impactful.
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