UK plans to invest £14B in AI development

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a comprehensive plan to integrate artificial intelligence across the country. 

This initiative includes adopting all 50 recommendations from a report by Matt Clifford, chair of the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency. 

Starmer stated the goal is to “mainline AI into the veins” of the nation, supported by significant investments from private tech firms. 

The plan will establish AI Growth Zones, expediting planning approvals for data centers, and aims to create a supercomputer capable of playing chess half a million times per second. 

Additionally, a National Data Library will be developed to provide publicly available data for training AI models. 

“The AI industry needs a government that is on their side,” emphasised Starmer, highlighting the need for an active government role in supporting the AI sector.

Tech companies have pledged £14 billion ($17 billion) towards building AI infrastructure, potentially generating over 13,000 jobs. 

However, challenges remain as neighboring Ireland has halted new data centers due to energy consumption concerns. 

Starmer's plan seeks to position the UK as a global leader in AI amidst fierce competition from the US and China. 

Industry leaders have welcomed the initiative but urge swift action in implementing the recommendations to maintain competitiveness. 

Julian David of techUK noted that details on execution are crucial for attracting further investment in this rapidly evolving sector.