Sir Keir Starmer is set to unveil ambitious plans later today to embed artificial intelligence (AI) into the heart of the UK’s economy. The initiative, which promises billions of pounds in investment, thousands of new jobs, and significant economic growth, aims to position Britain as a global leader in AI innovation while addressing criticisms of economic mismanagement and sluggish growth.
In his speech, Sir Keir is expected to say, “Artificial Intelligence will drive incredible change in our country. From teachers personalising lessons to supporting small businesses with their record-keeping, to speeding up planning applications, it has the potential to transform the lives of working people. But the AI industry needs a government that is on their side, one that won’t sit back and let opportunities slip through its fingers. And in a world of fierce competition, we cannot stand by. We must move fast and take action to win the global race.”
The government predicts that fully embracing AI could add £47 billion to the economy annually, with £14 billion of private-sector investment anticipated to create around 13,000 jobs. While most of these roles will involve constructing data centres and infrastructure, a smaller number will consist of highly technical positions once projects are operational.
Transformative plans for AI adoption
The government has committed to implementing all 50 recommendations from last year’s review by Matt Clifford. These include the creation of new AI “growth zones,” with the first set to be established in Culham, Oxfordshire, home to the UK’s Atomic Energy Authority. These zones will benefit from expedited planning decisions and enhanced power infrastructure.
The government also aims to significantly expand the UK’s computing capabilities, targeting a 20-fold increase by 2030. A new supercomputer forms a central part of this plan, envisioned as a joint public-private endeavour. This follows Labour’s decision to cancel a previously planned supercomputer project, citing funding concerns.
The strategy is built around three key pillars:
- Laying Foundations: Establishing growth zones and building a cutting-edge supercomputer.
- Boosting AI Adoption: Encouraging uptake across public and private sectors. New pilot schemes for public services are expected to be announced, with Sir Keir writing to cabinet ministers urging them to prioritise AI growth.
- Staying Ahead of Competitors: Creating a specialist team to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of emerging technologies.
Wider reception
The announcement has already drawn praise from tech leaders. Chris Lehane, chief global affairs officer at OpenAI, said, “The government’s AI action plan – led by the prime minister and [Science] Secretary Peter Kyle – recognises where AI development is headed and sets the UK on the right path to benefit from its growth. The UK has an enormous national resource in the talent of its people, institutions and businesses which together can leverage AI to advance the country’s national interest.”
However, opposition voices remain critical. Shadow Secretary for Science, Innovation and Technology, Alan Mak, stated, “Labour’s plan will not support the UK to become a tech and science superpower. They’re delivering analogue government in a digital age. Shaping a successful AI future requires investment, but in the six months leading up to this plan, Labour cut £1.3 billion in funding for Britain’s first next-generation supercomputer and AI research whilst imposing a national insurance jobs tax that will cost businesses in the digital sector £1.66 billion.”
As the government prepares to announce its proposals, all eyes will be on Sir Keir later today to outline how his strategy will drive innovation, boost the economy, and secure the UK’s place at the forefront of the global AI revolution.
