The UK has announced an investment of over £100 million (US$125 million) to establish nine new research hubs dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI) and to provide training for regulators in the field. Technology Minister Michelle Donelan emphasized the rapid progress of AI and highlighted the government's agile, sector-specific strategy to address associated risks promptly.
Approximately £90 million will be allocated to the research hubs, concentrating on the application of AI in sectors like healthcare, chemistry and mathematics, as well as fostering a collaboration with the US on responsible AI practices, according to the government. An additional £10 million will be dedicated to supporting regulators in addressing risks and capitalizing on AI opportunities. This includes the development of practical tools for risk monitoring across various sectors such as telecoms, healthcare, finance and education.
In November, the UK hosted an international summit focused on AI safety, where over 25 participating countries endorsed the 'Bletchley Declaration'. This declaration emphasizes the identification of shared risks and the development of collaborative, cross-country policies to mitigate them.