Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Simon Jupp Excerpts
Wednesday 17th April 2024

(2 weeks ago)

Commons Chamber
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Saqib Bhatti Portrait Saqib Bhatti
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Two sentences, Mr Speaker. I can confirm that the Government are taking a proactive approach to AI. The defending democracy taskforce is working very hard to protect our democratic processes.

Simon Jupp Portrait Simon Jupp (East Devon) (Con)
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T1. If she will make a statement on her departmental responsibilities.

Michelle Donelan Portrait The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (Michelle Donelan)
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I want the British people to be able to seize the extraordinary opportunities that AI offers, but that can happen only if we address the risks. At Bletchley Park we kick-started a global conversation and, since then, the Bletchley effect has seen countries from around the world collaborating on the development of safe, responsible and trustworthy AI. Two weeks ago I signed an agreement with the United States to allow us to collaborate seamlessly on AI safety testing. Last week we announced the date of the second AI Safety Summit in Seoul. We also remain laser-focused on implementing the landmark Online Safety Act, which will make Britain the safest place to be online. Last month we saw the first sentencing under the cyber-flashing offences that we brought in in January.

Simon Jupp Portrait Simon Jupp
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A fast and reliable internet connection is vital for everyday life and so many local businesses. I conducted a broadband survey in East Devon, which showed that some rural parts of my constituency sadly still lag behind, such as Sidbury, Fluxton, Marsh Green and Talaton. What steps are the Government taking to ensure that broadband providers improve connections across our county?

Julia Lopez Portrait The Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure (Julia Lopez)
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I am glad to say that over 75% of premises in my hon. Friend’s constituency can access gigabit-capable broadband. That is up from 6% in 2019, but we want to do more, so we have included mid and east Devon in our cross-regional framework for Project Gigabit. That is currently undertaking pre-procurement market engagement. We hope to give him news very soon.