Starmer Promises a Better Future Through Technology as AI Fears Rise

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed AI fears during London Tech Week, emphasizing the government’s commitment to a tech-driven future. He plans to ensure that technology benefits society, pledging to help families envision a better future. Major initiatives announced include £1 billion for AI infrastructure and the introduction of AI tools like Extract for planning applications, alongside a TechFirst program to teach AI skills to school children and training for 7.5 million workers.

Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, stepped into the spotlight at the opening of London Tech Week, urging ministers to assure parents that technology can pave a way to a brighter future for their children. He outlined several exciting policies around artificial intelligence (AI), particularly aimed at enhancing the country’s AI infrastructure. Among these innovations is a new AI tool set to shake up the planning system, which is desperately in need of modernization.

Starmer is well aware of the public’s “social fear” regarding AI, but he passionately believes that innovation can be a boon for society. “By the end of this parliament we should be able to look every parent in the eye in every region in Britain and say ‘look what technology can deliver for you’,” he declared, emphasizing the potential for technology to enrich lives. “We can put money in your pocket, we can create wealth in your community, we can create good jobs, vastly improve our public services, and build a better future for your children.”

Starmer seems determined to mitigate doubts surrounding AI replacing jobs. “AI and tech makes us more human,” he asserted, addressing those who fear a loss of employment to machines. He acknowledged the societal worries about AI making life too complicated. The relentless pace of technological change, he noted, can be overwhelming for many.

One of the standout announcements was a hefty £1 billion boost to AI computing—those vital microchips, processing units, and cabling that drive AI systems. Additionally, a new government AI assistant named “Extract” is on the way to assist in processing planning applications. Powered by Google’s sophisticated Gemini AI model, Extract aims to streamline an outdated planning system while helping officers eliminate red tape and make quicker decisions.

Starmer also unveiled a £187 million initiative dubbed “TechFirst,” dedicated to equipping school children with necessary AI skills. This effort dovetails with a partnership with the tech sector aimed at training 7.5 million workers in the UK to harness AI by 2030. In his eyes, this funding is a crucial step toward preparing the population for future employment landscapes.

On stage with Starmer was Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, the massive chipmaker with a market cap of $3.5 trillion. Huang lauded the UK as an “envy” for its rich pool of AI researchers and entrepreneurial spirit. The Prime Minister left the event hoping these announcements would spark confidence in what he envisions as a tech-driven future.

In summary, Keir Starmer’s ambitious plans unveiled at London Tech Week highlight a strong commitment to integrate AI into various sectors, focusing on ensuring benefits for society as a whole. With announcements like the £1 billion boost for AI computing and the introduction of the new AI assistant, Extract, he aims to alleviate public fears and secure a prosperous future for the next generation. Starmer’s TechFirst initiative seeks to prepare millions for future job markets, showcasing a proactive approach to education and technology.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com