Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what assessment she has made of the impact of energy prices on the cost and competitiveness of operating AI infrastructure in the UK.

Energy prices are a critical factor in the cost and competitiveness of operating AI infrastructure in the UK, but they are one of several key considerations, alongside access to reliable grid capacity, a strong digital services market, a highly developed economy and access to skilled talent. These factors must be considered in the round, as they collectively influence and shape investment decisions.

We are working closely with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the Department for Business and Trade, Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator on energy pricing, to ensure that we can attract sufficient investment in infrastructure and deliver on our ambition of being a global leader in AI.