Google has released a new paper titled "Unlocking the UK's AI potential," outlining a comprehensive strategy to position the United Kingdom at the forefront of artificial intelligence innovation and economic growth.
The paper highlights the transformative potential of AI-powered innovation, projecting it could generate over £400 billion in economic value for the UK by 2030. Beyond economic benefits, Google suggests AI could address pressing societal issues and advance fundamental scientific research.
Google's proposal focuses on three key areas for action: investment in AI infrastructure, development of a thoughtful workforce strategy, and ensuring universal access to AI technologies.
One of the paper's most significant recommendations is the establishment of a National Research Cloud. This initiative would provide critical access to compute capacity and computational tools, fostering a collaborative environment for AI research and development across the UK.
Google also calls for the creation of a National Skills Service. This platform would offer lifelong learning opportunities and an accreditation system for UK employers and workers, aiming to equip more people with the skills needed for high-value jobs in the AI era.
The paper underscores the critical juncture at which the UK finds itself in terms of AI policymaking. It suggests that by embracing these recommendations, the UK can create the right conditions for AI's full potential to be realised, positioning itself as a global leader in AI innovation and economic growth.