While the European Union (EU), United States (US), and China are making strides with new initiatives in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), the United Kingdom (UK) has announced that it will not be regulating the English AI sector.
Viscount Jonathan Camrose, the UK’s second minister for intellectual property and AI, revealed during a Financial Times event that there are no immediate plans to introduce AI legislation in the UK. He expressed concerns that stringent regulations could hinder the growth of businesses operating in this sector.
This decision by the UK contrasts with the actions taken by other global players. The EU is set to implement its AI legislation by the end of the year, positioning itself as a frontrunner in this domain. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden recently issued an executive order to promote responsible AI development, and China is also actively engaging in regulating the AI market.
Camrose emphasized the importance of fostering innovation in the AI industry, cautioning against premature restrictions that could stifle technological advancements. He underscored the need for a balanced approach that ensures both safety and progress.
In a separate statement, UK authorities clarified their stance, emphasizing a collaborative approach with industry and legal stakeholders to shape their AI strategy. Rather than establishing a dedicated regulatory body, the UK plans to distribute AI oversight responsibilities among existing entities focusing on human rights, health and safety, and competition.
Critics of the UK government’s hands-off approach warn that an underregulated AI sector may deter investors seeking accountability and security. Greg Clark, the head of the House of Commons research, development, and systems select committee, highlighted the UK’s ambition to set global standards in AI governance but cautioned that without clear policies, the UK risks falling behind the US and the EU in adopting a regulator-led approach.
In a bid to champion greater attention and security in the AI industry on a global scale, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently hosted a two-day summit attended by prominent figures in the tech industry, including Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
