The government has set out plans for targeted support for businesses to ensure they can develop and deploy safe, trustworthy AI to kickstart growth and improve productivity.
Part of the support will be a new AI assurance platform, which will give businesses access to a one-stop-shop for information on the actions they can take to identify and mitigate the potential risks and harms posed by AI. It will focus on capitalising on the growing demand for AI assurance tools and services, also partnering with industry to develop a new roadmap, which will help navigate international standards on AI assurance.
The platform will bring together guidance and new practical resources which sets out clear steps, such as how businesses can carry out impact assessments and evaluations, and reviewing data used in AI systems to check for bias, ensuring trust in AI as it’s used in day-to-day operations.
There will also be further support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to use a self-assessment tool to implement responsible AI management practices in their organisations and make better decisions as they develop and use AI systems.
According to recent figures, the UK's market for ensuring the trustworthiness of AI systems is poised to grow six-fold over the next decade - unlocking more than £6.5 billion as the UK government uses AI to kickstart growth.
Secretary of state for science, innovation, and technology, Peter Kyle, said: "AI has incredible potential to improve our public services, boost productivity and rebuild our economy but, in order to take full advantage, we need to build trust in these systems which are increasingly part of our day to day lives.
"The steps I’m announcing today will help to deliver exactly that – giving businesses the support and clarity they need to use AI safely and responsibly while also making the UK a true hub of AI assurance expertise."
The AI Safety Institute has also announced a new AI safety partnership with Singapore, which will see the two countries work together to drive forward research and work towards a shared set of policies, standards, and guidance.
Singapore minister for digital development and information, Josephine Teo, said: We are committed to realising our vision of AI for the Public Good for Singapore, and the world. The signing of this Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with an important partner, the United Kingdom, builds on existing areas of common interest and extends them to new opportunities in AI.
"Of particular significance is our joint support of the international Network of AI Safety Institutes (AISI). Through strengthening the capabilities of our AISIs, we seek to enhance AI safety, so that our peoples and businesses can confidently harness AI and benefit from its widespread adoption."
AI Safety Institute chair Ian Hogarth said: "An effective approach to AI safety requires global collaboration. That’s why we’re putting such an emphasis on the International Network of AI Safety Institutes, while also strengthening our own research partnerships.
"Our agreement with Singapore is the first step in a long-term ambition for both our countries to work closely together to advance the science of AI safety, support best practices and norms to promote the safe development and responsible use of AI systems."
