Innovation minister calls for urgent four nations summit on AI

Richard Lochhead has called for an urgent four nations summit on the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as soon as possible.

The innovation minister told Holyrood that he is “concerned” that the UK Government’s approach to AI has been “hands off” to this point.

Lochhead has also commissioned an independent review to set out what Scotland needs to do to maximise the benefits of the technology while controlling the risks.  

The review will be carried out by the Scottish AI Alliance’s leadership group, which comprises of experts from a range of sectors, perspectives and civil society.  

This week, more than 350 technology experts, academics and politicians called on governments to do more to prevent “the risk of extinction” from the emerging technology. This was backed by some important names in AI, namely the chief executive and co-founder of ChatGPT, Sam Altman, and the “Godfather of AI” Geoffrey Hinton.

Lochhead said: “Most experts agree that the impact of artificial intelligence on our lives will be huge and that if we do it right, AI can do a lot of good, from designing new drugs to tackling the climate emergency. Artificial intelligence has, however, triggered heated worldwide debate.

“Scotland can be a world leader in the development and use of AI in a way which is trustworthy, ethical and inclusive. To achieve that vision, government leadership and regulatory action are required.

“To kick-start that process, I propose that a four nations summit on the implications of AI be held urgently.

“Legislation is needed to meet Scotland’s needs. Government should not create unnecessary red tape but has a duty to create the right supportive environment for businesses to thrive and people to be protected.”