LONDON – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to announce a bold vision for the UK to become the world leader in artificial intelligence (AI) on Monday. In a speech aimed at accelerating the country’s AI capabilities, Starmer will reveal plans to establish special zones for data centres and incentivize more graduates to pursue technology-driven degrees.
Starmer will emphasize his commitment to placing AI at the core of the UK’s economic growth strategy. The government projects that embracing AI fully could boost national productivity by 1.5% annually, adding an impressive £47 billion (US$57 billion) to the economy each year over the next decade.
Ahead of Starmer’s speech in London, the government confirmed its intention to implement all 50 recommendations outlined in the “AI Opportunities Action Plan,” a report submitted last year by venture capitalist Matt Clifford. This action plan includes measures to streamline the construction of data centres by expediting planning approvals and enhancing energy access. The first of these AI hubs is set to be built in Culham, Oxfordshire, home to the UK’s Atomic Energy Authority.
In a statement issued by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Starmer declared: “Our plan will make the UK the world leader in AI. This means more jobs, more investment, and more money in people’s pockets.”
As countries around the world race to establish themselves as AI powerhouses, the UK remains a key player, currently ranking as the third-largest AI market globally, behind only the United States and China. This ranking is based on indicators such as investment and patents, according to research by Stanford University.
Despite challenges such as the Labour government’s decision to implement the highest tax-raising budget since 1993, which has dampened some business confidence, Starmer remains optimistic. The Bank of England recently reported no economic growth in the last quarter, underscoring the urgency of Starmer’s AI agenda.
Starmer’s remarks will highlight AI’s potential to improve daily life, from expediting planning consultations and supporting small businesses to reducing administrative burdens for teachers, allowing them to focus on educating.
“In a world of fierce competition, we cannot afford to stand still,” Starmer will assert. “We must act quickly and decisively to lead in AI.”
