The United Kingdom’s market for ensuring artificial intelligence systems are trustworthy is projected to expand sixfold over the next decade, reaching £6.5 billion, as the government rolls out new measures to boost confidence in AI technology across the public and private sectors.
The Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology announced Wednesday a new AI assurance platform that will serve as a central hub for British businesses seeking guidance on AI risk assessment and mitigation. The initiative comes as the government increasingly integrates AI into public services and economic reforms.
Currently, the UK’s AI assurance sector comprises 524 firms employing over 12,000 people and generating more than £1 billion in revenue. These companies provide tools and services to help organizations develop and implement AI systems that are fair, transparent, and protective of privacy.
“AI has incredible potential to improve our public services, boost productivity and rebuild our economy,” said Science Secretary Peter Kyle. “But in order to take full advantage, we need to build trust in these systems.”
The government is also launching a public consultation on a self-assessment tool designed particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises to implement responsible AI practices. This initiative complements the work of the AI Safety Institute (AISI), which recently launched a £200,000 grant program for AI safety research.
In a parallel development, the UK signed an AI safety partnership with Singapore on Wednesday. The agreement, signed by Kyle and Singapore’s Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo in London, establishes collaboration between the two nations’ AI safety institutes on research and policy development.
The announcement coincides with the Financial Times Future of AI Summit, where government and business leaders are gathering to discuss AI investment strategies and risk management.
