Rishi Sunak, the UK’s Prime Minister, has stated that the UK will take the lead in mitigating the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI). While acknowledging the transformative potential of AI for society, Sunak emphasized the need for its safe and secure introduction with proper safeguards in place. This stance represents a more cautious approach compared to previous statements, following calls from prominent tech leaders, including Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak, to pause significant AI projects until their capabilities and risks are thoroughly studied and addressed. Concerns include the creation of digital minds, fraud, disinformation, and job displacement.

Although Sunak has been an advocate for AI and the government has previously announced a light-touch regulatory program, his recent comments indicate the necessity of a global approach to regulation. He highlighted the importance of coordination with international allies, suggesting that discussions on AI regulation would likely be part of the conversations at the G7 summit in Japan. Sunak emphasized the UK’s track record in leadership and collaboration on technological regulation, such as the online safety bill, and expressed confidence that the country can provide the necessary guidelines and frameworks for AI, as it has done before.

The United States also seeks to discuss AI at the G7 summit, focusing on the threats posed by disinformation and infrastructure vulnerabilities. While the UK government does not see a moratorium as the solution, it is leaning toward considering a global framework. The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) recently announced its review of the underlying systems behind AI tools, which will provide insights into the sector and publish its findings in September.

In light of recent developments, influential figures like Geoffrey Hinton, known as the “godfather of AI,” have left their positions to openly discuss the dangers associated with AI. Sir Patrick Vallance, the UK government’s outgoing chief scientific adviser, has also urged ministers to proactively address the profound social and economic changes that AI could bring, highlighting the potential impact on jobs comparable to that of the Industrial Revolution.