UK artificial intelligence sector to receive major government boost

The UK’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector is to receive a significant boost as the government announces new measures of support in its Digital Strategy.

Set to be published by culture secretary Karen Bradley on Wednesday March 1, the measures will look to capitalise on Britain’s existing strengths and exploit new technologies.

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is expected to deliver a £17.3m funding package to UK universities in support of the development of new Robotics and AI technologies.

Additionally, Wendy Hall and Jérôme Pesenti will conduct a major AI review to consider how government and industry can work together to back the technology and explore opportunities for growth and commercialisation.

The announcement comes as research from Accenture claims AI has the potential to generate £654bn for the UK economy by 2035.

The Digital Strategy will also explore other technologies that have the potential to drive economic growth and productivity including cyber security, connected and smart devices and autonomous vehicles.

Bradley commented: “We are already pioneers in today’s artificial intelligence revolution and the Digital Strategy will build on our strengths to make sure UK-based scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs continue to be at the forefront.

“[…] Backing our thriving digital economy to expand and grow by putting the best foundations in place to develop new technology is a vital part of this Government’s plan to build a modern, dynamic and global trading nation.”

Hall added: “Our scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs are at the forefront of the development of artificial intelligence and I’m looking forward to exploring how industry and government can work together to support the technology in the UK.”