Technology Minister emphasises the importance of informed legislation and continuous assessment of AI technologies, amidst discussions on the proposed AI Authority and regulatory principles.
The UK government has expressed the need for a deeper understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) risks before enacting new regulations. Technology Minister Viscount Camrose emphasized the importance of waiting for the right moment to legislate judiciously, rather than quickly enacting laws that might be too narrow in scope. This stance was articulated amid discussions about the AI (Regulation) Bill, proposed by Conservative peer Lord Holmes of Richmond, which aims to establish an AI Authority to oversee AI regulation and risk assessment in the UK.
The bill, which has passed its third reading in the Lords, underscores principles of security, fairness, accountability, and transparency. Despite this progress, the government maintains a preference for a non-statutory approach to AI regulation, citing the need for flexibility and continuous assessment of evolving AI technologies.
The issue has generated diverse opinions, with Ulster Unionist Party peer Lord Empey expressing concerns that the government might be losing momentum, especially in contrast to the European Union’s definitive actions in AI regulation. In response, Viscount Camrose reassured that the UK is actively involved in global AI discourse, as evidenced by its co-hosting role at the upcoming AI Seoul Summit.
While the government has not ruled out the possibility of future legislation, it currently favors enhancing its understanding to inform any future laws better. The AI (Regulation) Bill is now awaiting further consideration in the House of Commons.
