Government Technology

New Technologies to Transform UK Government Digital Services

Gartner has identified six new technologies poised to transform digital government services in the UK over the next five years. These include digital employee experience (DEX), artificial intelligence (AI) code assistants, generative AI (GenAI), generative design AI, predictive analytics, and workstyle analytics. These technologies aim to bridge the gap between digital innovation goals and strategic objectives, enhancing public policy development, government processes, and real-time decision-making.

• Predictive analytics: Utilises machine learning and simulation to inform public policy and optimise processes.

• Workstyle analytics: Integrates IT, HR, and business data to improve employee experience and business outcomes.

• Digital employee experience: Focuses on minimising digital friction and maximising workforce digital dexterity.

• Generative AI: Shifts focus to use cases that drive ROI.

• Generative design AI: Optimises design processes through AI-generated options.

• AI code assistants: Enhance developer efficiency and problem-solving capabilities.

Transport News

AI Traffic Lights Prioritise Cyclists in Birmingham Trial

Traffic lights prioritising cyclists over cars are being tested in Birmingham. AI sensors detect cyclists up to 30m away, changing lights to red for vehicles, aiming to reduce collisions and waiting times. This initiative, developed by VivaCity and installed by Transport for West Midlands and Solihull Council, promotes active travel and road safety.

The project is part of a broader effort to reduce vehicle dependency and improve public health. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh announced significant funding for active travel, while privacy concerns arise over AI's role in traffic management. The pilot's success could set a precedent for future implementations across the UK.

Technology Policy

International AI Treaty Signed by UK, US, and EU

The UK, US, EU, and seven other countries have signed the first international AI treaty, the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law. This treaty mandates measures to ensure AI use aligns with human rights, democracy, and the law, addressing risks like biased data and misinformation.

The treaty, signed on September 5, 2024, in Vilnius, Lithuania, requires signatories to ensure AI systems respect human dignity, provide transparency, and allow challenges to AI decisions. It covers AI use by public authorities and private companies but excludes national security and defence. The UK government aims to balance AI innovation with stringent regulations to safeguard public interests.

Legal Insights

Lessons from Global AI Regulation for UK Public Sector Implementation

The rapid adoption of AI in the public sector brings both opportunities and significant risks. The UK government's light-touch approach to AI regulation leaves public bodies navigating a complex landscape, balancing efficiency gains against potential adverse consequences for service users and staff. The EU's comprehensive AI Act and the Biden Administration's executive orders offer valuable lessons, emphasising safety, transparency, and fairness.

Public sector bodies must ensure AI tools are robust, secure, and transparent to avoid harmful outcomes and bias. Contractual arrangements with AI suppliers should include provisions for redress in case of failures. Despite the challenges, fostering innovation remains crucial, encouraging imaginative uses of AI to enhance public services.

Education & Skills

Government Initiative to Boost AI in Schools Gains Support from EdTech Leader

The UK government has launched a £4 million initiative to enhance AI in schools, aiming to improve AI accuracy from 67% to 92%. This project will provide a large dataset to AI companies, helping to reduce teacher workload, improve marking, and personalise learning experiences. Teacherbot, an AI-powered platform, is already aiding 15,000 educators globally, saving them an average of 10 hours per week on administrative tasks.

The initiative addresses critical issues such as teacher stress and burnout, with 78% of teachers reporting stress and 75% spending excessive time on non-teaching tasks. However, it also raises concerns about data privacy and equitable access. Collaboration between EdTech innovators and policymakers is essential to ensure AI enhances, rather than replaces, the role of teachers.