Weekly Newsletter - 13.06.2024

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Local Government Updates

AI Governance

Governance And Adoption Are Key For Public Sector AI Effort

AI is set to revolutionise public sector operations and engagement, akin to the impact of open data in the 2010s. A report highlights that public sector leaders aim to enhance data quality (36%), streamline operations (35%), and increase automation (33%). However, AI governance is often managed by IT, leading to accountability issues and nontechnical risks. Public-private partnerships and third-party solutions can expedite AI implementation, as seen in Amsterdam's AI-based parking enforcement. Developing in-house capabilities is essential due to AI's risks. Forrester emphasises that people, not technology, are key to AI success, offering support in AI system categorization and use cases to build trust and ensure ethical AI use.

AI Oversight

UK Tech Execs Want More Government Oversight of AI

A recent study by IT consultancy Zartis reveals that 72% of UK tech executives are calling for more government oversight of AI, with nearly a third desiring significantly more regulation. Conducted by Census wide, the survey of 100 senior technology executives highlights that 80% believe global coordination on AI regulation is crucial, and 78% are satisfied with the UK government's current approach. However, opinions are divided on the impact of regulations on innovation, with 45% seeing them as beneficial and 43% viewing them as potentially harmful. The UK's AI Bill, currently stalled due to elections, aims to establish an AI Authority to monitor risks and align existing regulators. Despite differing views, there is a clear demand for more structured AI governance.

Strategic Leadership

Cabinet Office Seeks Tech Leader to Spearhead Next Generation of Working at Secret Capabilities

The Cabinet Office is recruiting a senior technologist to lead the development of a new cross-government environment for Secret-classified work. This role, within the Government Security Group, aims to enhance the UK's capabilities in handling highly sensitive information. The successful candidate will coordinate efforts across civil government, defence, and law enforcement to ensure maximum utility, interoperability, and security. The position requires strategic leadership, collaboration with national and international partners, and a keen interest in technology's role in business outcomes. The role offers a salary between £64,700 and £75,000, with applications due by June 21.

Major Investment

HMRC Takes Recent Tech Contract Spend Over 1Bn With New Build Services Deal for Making Tax Digital

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has committed over £1bn to modernise its digital services through a series of significant technology contracts. The latest deal, part of the £3bn DALAS framework, focuses on the Making Tax Digital (MTD) initiative and is valued at up to £263.1m. This contract, awarded to Capgemini, aims to enhance digital integration and development across HMRC's services. Other contracts under this framework, worth a combined £541.6m, have been awarded to Accenture, IBM, and Net company, covering areas such as borders and trade, customer strategy, and support. These investments are expected to significantly upgrade HMRC's digital infrastructure, improving efficiency and service delivery for millions of users.

Cloud Security Mandates

Compatibility with UK Laws and Shared Responsibility: MoD Sets Cloud Security Controls for Suppliers

In response to a recent cyberattack, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued stringent cloud security requirements for its suppliers. The new guidelines mandate that all cloud service providers in the MoD supply chain comply with the National Cyber Security Centre's Cloud Security Principles. Suppliers must ensure data protection aligns with UK laws, even when data is stored internationally. The MoD emphasises a shared responsibility model, requiring regular security audits and clear documentation of security measures. These controls aim to safeguard sensitive MoD information and mitigate risks associated with cloud services, ensuring robust data security and compliance across all levels of the supply chain.

AI for Accessibility

Signapse Secures 2M Seed for AI Sign Language Translation

Signapse, a company specialising in generative AI for Sign Language translation, has raised 2 million in seed funding, with contributions from investors and the UK Government. The funding will enhance accessibility for the Deaf community by improving AI-generated British Sign Language (BSL) translations. Signapse has already made significant strides, providing 5,000 daily BSL train announcements and 4,000 manual translations for websites and videos. The new funds will support expansion into the global video translation market and improve the quality of AI-generated Sign Language videos. Key investors include Soulmates Ventures and the Royal Association for Deaf people, who are excited to support Signapse's mission to enhance accessibility in various sectors.