4 Acquisition International - Issue 12 2022 News: from around the world Experts react: UK set to become next AI superpower New research by WPI Economics has highlighted that the UK is forging ahead with cementing itself as the next leader in artificial intelligence following public sector investment, as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak states at the CBI, it will be a “defining focus in my government”. The recent report revealed a £2.3bn injection of funds into AI since 2014 with the aim of improving data management, an area which played a vital role during the pandemic. For example, doctors were able to use it to detect the severity of a patient’s condition and provide direct patient care. However, the report also warned that more needs to be done to improve data capabilities across government as departments lack a clear data strategy, whilst too few civil servants have the relevant knowledge to improve data handling. Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Michelle Donelan supported the study, stating that the UK “could and should be a global superpower in this space in the coming years”. Sunak plans to entice more high skilled migrants into the UK to fill jobs in areas such as AI as he expresses the UK “cannot allow the world’s top AI talent to be draw to America or China” Sridhar Iyengar, MD for Zoho Europe, commented: “AI-equipped networks, tools and infrastructure are imperative for efficient and competitive business operations. AI’s use-cases are abundant. One example where business can benefit is using AI to enhance the customer experience - through dedicated chatbot services, Natural Language Processing for seamless search and discovery, and tailoring marketing preferences to individual users. It can also be deployed to improve network connectivity and operational efficiency, enhance data security via anomaly and threat detection, automate regulatory processes, and more. “It’s positive to see UK government recognition of the value of AI, and their willingness to maintain AI investment despite a looming recession. Thanks to the UK’s commitment to innovation and research and development, more investment in AI will not only strengthen home-grown businesses, but it will promote job creation, support economic growth, and nurture creativity. We encourage consistent investment and training to ensure all government departments, including those who lag behind in this area, have the skills and capabilities to reap all the rewards AI can offer and to ensure the UK remains in a prime position to take the global lead with AI related innovation.”
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