TechWorks members will appreciate more than most that as Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes embedded in people’s lives, the UK finds itself at a pivotal moment.

Estimates show that AI could deliver a 10% increase in UK GDP in 2030.  Companies in the ‘deep tech’ sector are at the forefront of the evolution of the science & technology and across the breadth of potential AI applications. 

Therefore, there will be interest in the Roadmap recently published by the Govt. This summary report by the AI Council sets out long-term ambitions and suggests near-term directions for all government departments, with the aim of cementing the UK as one of the very best places in the world to live with, work with and develop AI.  It sets out suggested directions across three pillars: Research, Development & Innovation; Skills & Diversity, and Data, Infrastructure & Public Trust. 

The report’s underlying message for Govt is about the need to “double down” on recent investment the UK has made in AI. In particular, developing the best science and the most robust applications requires commitment to an ambitious programme of investment in talent.