The Rise of AI in Government

Keir Starmer wants AI at the heart of government. This week, the Prime Minister unveiled plans to digitise the civil service using AI, claiming it could save up to £45 billion.

Uncovering Conflicts of Interest

While the government boasts about its ambitions, it has been less forthcoming about the business interests of the architect behind its flagship AI policy: Matt Clifford. Earlier this year, reports indicated that Clifford’s public register did not include several interests in AI businesses, including a £40 million investment fund associated with Hakluyt, a firm with close Labour ties.

Now, after obtaining a list via Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, it is revealed that Clifford holds investments in nearly 500 tech firms, particularly in health-tech and life sciences—domains expected to flourish amid the UK’s AI revolution.

The Call for Transparency

Transparency campaigners have criticized this lack of disclosure. George Havenhand from Spotlight on Corruption stated, ‘The department’s decision to withhold hundreds of declared interests from public scrutiny raises serious questions about whether it is robustly managing these potential conflicts.’

The FOI documents also reveal Clifford’s firm’s involvement with at least eight companies in the Startup Coalition, a powerful industry group advocating for AI. The coalition has lobbied in favor of the government’s controversial plan to amend copyright laws, a move resisted by media and music sectors.

Diverse Voices Needed in Policymaking

Academics like Gina Neff from the Minderoo Centre for Technology & Democracy have raised concerns about the narrow circle of advisers influencing AI policy. Neff emphasized, ‘There are many in civil society frustrated at the lack of access to tech policymaking in government. The UK has incredible expertise in AI, and we want to see that diversity reflected in decision-making.’

Industry Concerns About Influence

Some industry figures express discomfort regarding Clifford’s influence on AI policy despite his respected status. One source remarked, ‘Of course, you want entrepreneurs involved. But you don’t give one man—who runs the firm with the most AI investments in Europe—the job of writing the policy and accept all his recommendations the same day.’

Global Insights and Subsequent Developments

Innovation doesn’t stop with government policy. New Scientist reported that Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle sought advice from AI models on UK businesses’ slow AI adoption.

The ongoing discourse about AI integration within policies continues as both sides of the argument seek to find a balance that promotes innovation with oversight.

DSIT and Matt Clifford have yet to respond to requests for comment.

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