In a House of Lords debate, Tina Stowell, chair of the Lords Communications and Digital Select Committee, called for a robust UK strategy to harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI). She emphasized that this strategy should prioritize supporting commercial ventures, academic research, and innovation spin-outs.
Stowell warned against adopting policies that hinder open-source AI development or marginalize smaller, innovative companies. Her remarks reflect a growing recognition of the critical role AI will play in shaping the UK’s economic and technological future.
The Lords Committee has initiated an inquiry into the UK’s potential to scale up its capabilities in creative industries and AI. This inquiry aims to identify and address obstacles that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face in these areas.
While acknowledging the challenges of predicting AI’s trajectory, Stowell noted the increasing consolidation of power among large tech firms. She expressed optimism about the opportunities for the UK to excel in creating applications built on top of these systems, an area she believes could become a national strength.
House of Lords Urges UK to Prioritize Open-Source AI and Support for Innovative Startups
Stowell highlighted the importance of open-source AI in promoting competition and driving economic growth. She argued for a balanced approach that mitigates risks while fostering innovation. By supporting policies that encourage collaboration and competition, the UK can capitalize on its strengths without imposing unnecessary restrictions. This, she suggested, would help the UK become a hub for responsible and dynamic AI development.
On the subject of regulation, Stowell urged the UK to chart its own course, taking lessons from but not directly imitating the EU, US, or China. She outlined key areas of focus, including talent development, computational resources, the establishment of enabling standards, and the promotion of responsible practices. Caution and precision, she argued, are essential in addressing issues like liability and anti-competitive behavior, avoiding overly hasty regulatory measures.
Stowell also called for broader participation in shaping AI policies, urging smaller organizations and individuals to engage in consultations and committee work. She stressed that AI’s impact will be far-reaching, making diverse input essential to creating fair and effective policies. Recognized for her contributions, Stowell, alongside others, has been nominated for the OpenUK award, reflecting her commitment to ensuring the UK takes a leading role in the development and regulation of AI.
