LONDON — On Monday, the British government announced its commitment to eliminating bureaucratic obstacles that impede the construction of data centers crucial for artificial intelligence development. This move aligns with a broader strategy to foster a “pro-innovation” environment for regulating technology.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer lauded the potential of AI while revealing comprehensive plans aimed at leveraging this technology, indicating that AI will play a pivotal role in the government’s initiatives to revitalize the economy and stimulate sluggish growth. Starmer expressed his ambition for Britain to be recognized as “one of the great AI superpowers,” aspiring to compete with nations like the United States and China, which are currently at the forefront of AI advancements.
The government’s proposal includes a 50-point plan with limited specifics on financial investment. The focus is on significantly increasing public computing capabilities, which involves the construction of a new national supercomputer and the creation of AI “growth zones,” designed to simplify the approval process for building projects. “If you’re considering locations for your data centers, we will accelerate planning permissions to enhance access to power,” Starmer stated.
Britain’s intricate building permission framework has often been criticized for obstructing significant projects such as data centers. Following Starmer’s Labour government taking office in July, a review of decisions made by local authorities to reject various projects has been promised.
Furthermore, the government intends to maintain its “pro-innovation” regulatory stance on AI. This approach emphasizes empowering current industry regulators rather than establishing a new set of regulations like those proposed by the European Union. The continued support for the U.K.’s AI Safety Institute, initiated by Starmer’s Conservative predecessor, Rishi Sunak, aims to conduct research on advanced AI models and the potential long-term risks they may present.
Starmer reiterated, “We will examine and comprehend AI before implementing regulations, ensuring that our approach is proportional and scientifically informed.”
