Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what her Department's policy is on the regulation of (a) artificial intelligence and (b) machine learning.

We published our AI Regulation White Paper on 29 March, which sets out five cross-cutting principles regulators should apply when considering the use of AI in their own sectors. The principles are: (i) safety, security and robustness, (ii) appropriate transparency and explainability, (iii) fairness, (iv) accountability and governance, (v) contestability and redress.

Our principles-based approach to AI regulation is focused on outcomes and is designed to manage risk and enhance trust while also allowing innovation to flourish. The proposals include the introduction of a statutory duty on regulators in time.

The white paper also proposes a range of new central functions, including a horizon scanning function intended to anticipate and assess emerging risks. This will complement the existing work undertaken by regulators and other government departments to identify and address risks arising from AI. The consultation closed on 21 June, and the Government will update on the proposals in its response.