The UK government is launching AI tools to cut costs and streamline operations in the Civil Service, aiming for significant savings and faster processes.
London: The UK government is rolling out a set of AI tools called Humphrey to help the Civil Service save money and work more efficiently. This initiative is expected to cut down on consultant costs and speed up processes in Whitehall.
By replacing outdated technology, they hope to save around £45 billion, which is a big deal for taxpayer-funded services. Some of these tools are ready for civil servants to start using right away.
One tool, named Consult, is designed to make policy decision-making quicker. It can analyze thousands of consultation responses in just hours and present the findings in easy-to-understand dashboards for policymakers.
Science Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized the need for better technology to improve how public services share information. He pointed out that the current methods are often slow and frustrating for everyone involved.
Right now, consultants can take months to compile responses, costing taxpayers about £100,000 for each consultation. The new tools aim to change that.
Along with Consult, the package includes other tools like Parlex, which analyzes decades of parliamentary debates, and Redbox, which helps prepare briefings. There’s also Lex, a legal research tool.
The government is looking to modernize digital services to make it easier for the public to access what they need. Kyle is also set to introduce digital driving licenses through a government app, which sounds pretty convenient.
They want to eliminate outdated processes, like waiting in line at local councils or posting ads in newspapers for licenses. The goal is to make everything more efficient and user-friendly.
Additionally, departments like HMRC and the Department for Business and Trade will be encouraged to share data more effectively to tackle fraud.
A new team in Kyle’s department will focus on connecting public services, so people don’t have to repeat the same information to multiple organizations.
Kyle expressed frustration over how slow technology has been holding back public services, costing time and money. He’s determined to use AI to improve lives and drive growth.
Sir Keir Starmer has also voiced his ambition for the UK to become an AI superpower, leveraging technology for economic growth. The government plans to act on all 50 recommendations made by tech entrepreneur Matt Clifford, who was tasked with identifying AI opportunities.
They’re not just building tools in-house; they’re also looking to purchase AI solutions from the private sector to enhance their capabilities.
