The UK government plans to use artificial intelligence to reduce the number of civil servants

By: Nastya Bobkova | 29.02.2024, 21:53

The UK government intends to use artificial intelligence to optimise public services. It is reported that Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden will present new tools aimed at automating tasks usually performed by civil servants.

Here's What We Know

One of these tools, known as the 'red box', is designed to collect and summarise information from authoritative sources such as parliamentary minutes. Another tool is also being considered that will respond to public consultations with individualised responses. Although the speed of the AI is yet to be assessed, Dowden says the technology can do work that would normally take three months and 25 employees. It is worth noting that each draft will be checked by a human and will include a search for sources.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also supports the use of technology to increase government productivity.

The use of artificial intelligence will be limited to those areas where there is a strong need to maintain a high level of confidentiality and caution. For example, this may include data processing or dealing with issues related to national security, foreign policy, or other areas where it is important to maintain a high level of confidentiality and information protection.

At the same time, the Cabinet Office's AI department plans to expand its staff from 30 to 70 employees and receive a new budget of £110 million (US$139.1 million), a significant increase from the previous £5 million (US$6.3 million).

Source: Engadget