Islwyn MP Chris Evans spoke this week at a well-attended Westminster reception on AI hosted by Microsoft.
In his capacity as Shadow Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy, he talked with AI specialists on the opportunities that AI presents, and highlighted the importance of well-crafted regulation in ensuring that relevant technologies are used responsibly.
The two types of AI, or artificial intelligence, already in common use are known as ‘reactive memory AI’ and limited memory AI’. The former works using presently available data and are designed to do a very specific task—like a chess computer that analyses the current state of the board in order to optimise the next move. The latter can monitor situations over time and utilise information they have gathered in the past. This is how virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa work, and how generative tools like ChatGPT compose their answers. These kinds of AI have uses that can benefit the public sector too. For example, doctors and researchers in London have used AI to create a machine that spots signs of lung cancer on scans with more accuracy than human medical professionals.
Chris Evans MP said:
‘It was brilliant to speak to Microsoft and other sector representatives today about their innovative work. The group of technologies that we call ‘AI’ can seem daunting, but it’s important to remember that they offer a range of opportunities to revolutionise the way in which we can use information for the good of society.
‘This comes with the important caveat that it must be regulated properly. The future of AI must centre on ensuring responsible use—creating solutions, not problems.’
