The UK Government has announced targeted support for tech businesses across the country to aid in the development of safe, trustworthy AI that it hopes can kickstart major economic growth.

As part of this commitment, the government has launched a new AI assurance platform, giving businesses access to a ‘one-stop-shop’ for information on actions they can take to identify and mitigate the potential risks and harms posed by AI.

The platform brings together guidance and new practical resources which sets out clear steps such as how businesses can carry out impact assessments and evaluations, as well as reviewing data used in AI systems to check for bias, ensuring trust in AI before it’s rolled out to day-to-day operations.  

Focus will be given to how firms can capitalise on the growing market in AI assurance tools and services, now in even greater demand as AI is increasingly used by businesses and organisations across the country. 

Further support will see businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), able to use a self-assessment tool to implement responsible AI management practices in their organisations, with a consultation for industry feedback being launched to ensure these tools are as effective as possible.

Currently, around 524 firms make up this slice of the UK’s AI sector, employing more than 12,000 people, generating more than £1 billion, and providing services to ensure AI systems are fair, transparent and protect individual privacy.  

The government hopes that the new measures will unlock a further £6.5 billion in growth, hasten its plans for reforming the country’s public services, and boost public trust in the technology.  

The science and technology secretary, Peter Kyle, said: “AI has incredible potential to improve our public services, boost productivity and rebuild our economy but, in order to take full advantage, we need to build trust in these systems which are increasingly part of our day to day lives.

“The steps I’m announcing today will help to deliver exactly that – giving businesses the support and clarity they need to use AI safely and responsibly while also making the UK a true hub of AI assurance expertise.”

The government also hopes that the new platform will help the UK cement its position as a world leader in AI safety, saying it will partner with private industry to develop a new roadmap using these services to help navigate international standards on AI assurance.

A year ago, the UK launched the world’s first public AI safety body, the AI Safety Institute, which has provided millions in grants, released an open source evaluation platform, hosted international events, and has now announced a new AI safety partnership with Singapore’s own public body for AI safety.

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The government said that the agreement will see the two institutes work together closely to drive research and work towards a shared set of policies, standards, and guidance, which it hopes will lead to the adoption of a common approach in the development of advanced AI.

Singapore minister for digital development and information, Josephine Teo, said: “We are committed to realising our vision of AI for the Public Good for Singapore, and the world. 

“Of particular significance is our joint support of the international Network of AI Safety Institutes. Through strengthening the capabilities of our AISIs, we seek to enhance AI safety, so that our peoples and businesses can confidently harness AI and benefit from its widespread adoption.”