Conservative and Labour technology ministers respond to public questions on scientific research funding, AI development, tech business growth, job security, pandemic preparedness, digital impact on education, small business support, fraud prevention, cybersecurity, and children’s online safety.
Election Debate: Technology Ministers Address Key Questions
Date: May 18, 2024
Venue: Not specified
In the recent election debate, Michelle Donelan from the Conservative Party and Peter Kyle from the Labour Party fielded questions on technology from the public. Here are the key details:
Scientific Research Funding
* Question from Claire Fayers, children’s author from Abergavenny:
– Conservative: Committed to investing £20 billion in R&D for 2024.
– Labour: Plans to set 10-year R&D budgets to foster long-term industry partnerships and collaborations.
AI Development and Safety
* Question from Matthew Ryan, university manager from London:
– Conservative: Highlighted the AI Safety Institute and international agreements for safe AI development.
– Labour: Emphasizes collaboration with allies like the US to ensure safe and beneficial AI development.
Fostering UK Tech Giants
* Question from Andrew Burkinshaw, deputy headteacher from London:
– Conservative: Focus on training and funding to support UK tech startups.
– Labour: Aims to reform capital markets and support university spinouts to grow tech businesses.
Job Security Amidst Technological Advancements
* Question from Julie Foster, retired college lecturer from Burnley:
– Conservative: Advocates using technology to complement jobs and enhance digital skills.
– Labour: Promotes a growth and skills levy for ongoing workforce training in new technologies.
Pandemic Preparedness
* Question from John Kane, local government worker from Trowbridge:
– Conservative: Points to the UK’s prowess in life sciences and new vaccine production deals.
– Labour: Proposes a Life Sciences plan to partner with companies on pandemic preparedness and job creation.
Impact of Digital Technology on Problem-Solving
* Question from Matt Creswell, teacher from East London:
– Conservative: Sees technology as beneficial, improving efficiency and human interaction.
– Labour: Focuses on adapting education to include new skills for a digital world.
Support for Small Businesses in Tech R&D
* Question from Alison Bragg, home-educating mother from Workington:
– Conservative: Emphasizes R&D tax relief and grants for small businesses.
– Labour: Plans to set a pro-innovation body and streamline regulations.
Combating AI-Facilitated Fraud
* Question from Edward Schuldt, retired from London:
– Conservative: Introduced laws for swift removal of online scams and dedicated police officers.
– Labour: Advocates a coordinated government approach to tackle fraud.
Protecting Transport Systems from Cyber Attacks
* Question from Sarah Brackwell, disability access consultant from London:
– Conservative: Emphasizes national security measures and industry collaboration.
– Labour: Prioritizes cyber security for national infrastructure.
Children’s Use of Smartphones
* Question from Rob Ferguson, sales director from Minster, Kent:
– Conservative: Enforces the Online Safety Act to protect kids online.
– Labour: Seeks stronger online safety measures and collaborates with stakeholders to protect children.
Both parties presented detailed plans on various technological issues, from boosting scientific research to addressing safety concerns surrounding AI and cybersecurity. The debate highlighted the differing strategies to harness technology for economic growth and societal benefits.
