The UK has unveiled plans for a new hub to develop AI governance standards for the use of artificial intelligence.

Creating the new hub will form an integral part of the country’s ambitious plans to become a global leader in the use of AI.

The hub will help improve AI governance, complement pro-innovation regulation and unlock the economic potential of these technologies to boost investment and employment.

Its main goals during its pilot phase will be to create practical tools for businesses, bring the UK’s AI community together through a new online platform, and develop educational materials to help organisations develop and benefit from global standards.

I will also help develop international collaboration to ensure the development of technical standards are shaped by a wide range of AI experts.

The project will be led by the Alan Turing Institute, with support from the British Standards Institution and National Physical Laboratory.

Ahead of the pilot’s launch, the Alan Turing Institute will lead a series of roundtables with other organisations to shape the hub’s activities.

Director and Chief Executive of The Alan Turing Institute Adrian Smith said: “International standards are set to play an increasingly crucial enabling role in the adoption and effective governance of AI technologies.

“Given our place at the heart of the UK’s thriving AI ecosystem, I am delighted to see the Turing identified as the home of this important new initiative.

“We look forward to working closely with our partners in establishing the AI Standards Hub, leveraging our expertise and networks to build and engage an inclusive, multi-stakeholder community around AI standardisation.”

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New research has predicted that over 1.3 million UK businesses will use AI by 2040. In addition, spending on AI is expected to reach more than £200 billion by the same date.

According to the study, UK businesses spent around £63 billion on AI technology and AI related labour in 2020.

In addition, Tech Nation statistics show that the UK is currently home to over 1,300 AI companies – a 600% rise over the last decade.

DCMS Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy Chris Philp said: “It’s imperative the UK remains at the forefront of this transformative technology which is already improving our lives and has huge potential to create new jobs and wealth.

“Today I’m confirming that the renowned Alan Turing Institute will lead the trial of a new UK programme with support from the British Standards Institution and National Physical Laboratory to help shape and improve the global standards for artificial intelligence.

“It marks the first step in delivering our new National AI Strategy and will develop the tools needed so organisations and consumers can benefit from all the opportunities of AI. We want the UK to lead the world in developing AI standards.”

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