Latest list of AI in government decision-making published | Compute…
The UK government is taking strides to enhance transparency about the use of algorithms that directly impact citizens by publishing the latest set of public sector applications that incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) or automation. This effort is part of a broader initiative to demonstrate algorithmic transparency and to enable citizens to gain insight into how government departments utilize AI.
The newly updated algorithmic transparency records present a comprehensive overview of how AI is being applied across various public sector organizations. These records aim to enhance public understanding by detailing how reliable data is employed to train AI models, the specific technology underlying each application, and the mechanisms in place to effectively manage any associated risks. In instances where civil servants utilize algorithmic tools to expedite decision-making, the records clarify how trained professionals remain integral to the final decision-making process.
This update currently encompasses all algorithmic tools that either interact directly with citizens or significantly influence decisions made about them. Notably, there are a few narrow exemptions, particularly concerning national security. However, the overarching objective remains to ensure transparency by publishing records of these tools once they are actively piloted or fully operational.
In response to the latest updates in the algorithmic transparency records, Science Secretary Peter Kyle remarked, “Technology has huge potential to transform public services for the better. We will put it to use to cut backlogs, save money and improve outcomes for citizens across the country. Transparency in how and why the public sector is using algorithmic tools is crucial to ensure that they are trusted and effective. That is why we will continue to take bold steps like releasing these records to make sure everyone is clear on how we are applying and trialing technology as we use it to bring public services back from the brink.”
One notable inclusion in the latest update is an algorithmic tool developed by the Department for Business and Trade. This tool is designed to predict which companies are likely to export goods to other countries, assisting officials in identifying those that may benefit from additional support.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasized the significance of AI in this endeavor, stating, “Our Plan for Change will deliver economic growth, and for that to succeed, we need to support companies across the UK to realize their full potential when it comes to exporting around the globe. Our use of AI plays a vital and growing role in that mission, allowing high-growth businesses to maximize the export opportunities available to them, while ensuring that we are using taxpayers’ money responsibly and efficiently in delivering economic stability.”
The latest additions to the algorithmic transparency records showcase a diverse array of tools adopted by various government sectors. Notable among them are chatbots developed by Network Rail and the Ministry of Justice, as well as an internal HR tool utilized by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.
Additionally, automation tools such as the Correspondence Triage Automation Tool employed by HM Treasury, the Consular Digital Triage tool for handling written inquiries at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and the Complexity Application Routing Solution for visa applications, underscore the varied scope of AI applications across government departments.
Further applications highlighted in this update include a tool enabling staff at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) to efficiently search published guidance, a writing assistant tool for the Ministry of Defence, and the Department of Work and Pensions’ Pension Calculator designed to estimate a citizen’s potential retirement income.
This transparent initiative not only emphasizes the government’s dedication to utilizing AI responsibly but also illustrates a move towards greater accountability, ensuring that technological advancements genuinely benefit the public and uphold trust in public services.
