OpenAI advocates for UK AI legislation, aiming to foster safe AI practices in collaboration with the UK government.
- Brittany Smith stresses the importance of clear safety guidelines to the Labour government.
- OpenAI collaborates with the UK AI Safety Institute to guide lawmakers on AI best practices.
- Challenges in preparing regulators for AI governance are acknowledged by OpenAI’s head of UK policy.
- The Labour government signals its intent to legislate AI protections during the first King’s Speech.
OpenAI has expressed its support for the UK’s move towards enacting legislation governing generative artificial intelligence. The company is advocating for regulations that not only manage the potential societal impacts of AI models but also incentivise safe AI practices. Speaking at the Labour Party Conference, Brittany Smith, OpenAI’s head of UK policy, emphasised the need for clear safety guidelines from the government.
Smith highlighted a collaboration between OpenAI and the UK AI Safety Institute, designed to assist lawmakers in understanding and implementing best practices for AI governance. This partnership aims to provide valuable insights into effective legislative frameworks that prioritise safety in AI development and deployment.
Despite recognising the complexities involved in preparing regulators for AI policy, Smith conveyed optimism about the potential for a successful regulatory approach. She acknowledged that developing a fully operational AI regulatory body could be a lengthy process, possibly taking several years. However, she stressed the necessity for the government to issue streamlined guidance tailored to the specific needs of various sectors and departments.
During the first King’s Speech under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Labour government underscored its commitment to establishing appropriate legislation for AI. Although a specific bill has yet to be introduced, the government has clearly articulated its intention to address the potential risks posed by the most advanced AI models.
OpenAI’s proactive stance exemplifies the collaborative effort needed to ensure responsible AI innovation.
