LONDON: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to announce a bold plan on Monday, aimed at making the United Kingdom the global leader in artificial intelligence (AI). As part of his vision, Starmer will advocate for the creation of specialized zones for data centres and will push for greater emphasis on technology-focused education to cultivate a new generation of AI experts.
In his address, Starmer will emphasize AI as a cornerstone of his economic growth strategy. The government projects that widespread adoption of AI could boost national productivity by 1.5% annually, translating to an additional £47 billion (US$57 billion) to the UK economy each year over the next decade.
Ahead of Starmer’s speech in London, the government confirmed it will implement all 50 recommendations from the “AI Opportunities Action Plan” by venture capitalist Matt Clifford, which was presented to the government last year. Key proposals include easing the process for establishing data centres by speeding up planning approvals and ensuring robust energy infrastructure. The first such data centre will be built in Culham, Oxfordshire, at the site of the UK Atomic Energy Authority.
Starmer expressed his confidence in the plan, saying: “Our vision will position the UK as the world leader in AI. This will create more jobs, attract investment, and put more money into people’s pockets.”
As countries globally race to establish themselves as AI powerhouses, the UK is already the third-largest AI market, trailing only the United States and China in areas such as investment and patents, according to Stanford University.
However, Starmer’s Labour government faces challenges, with recent fiscal policies, including the highest tax-raising budget since 1993, dampening some business confidence. Additionally, the Bank of England reported last month that the UK economy showed no growth in the previous quarter.
Despite these hurdles, Starmer will highlight AI’s transformative potential, from streamlining planning processes and supporting small businesses to reducing administrative burdens for teachers, enabling them to focus more on teaching.
“In a world where competition is intensifying, we cannot afford to stand still,” Starmer will declare. “We must act swiftly and decisively to secure our place at the forefront of this revolution.”
