Artificial Intelligence inquiry launched by House of Lords

The Committee is looking for pragmatic solutions to the issues presented, and questions raised by the development and use of artificial intelligence in the present and the future.

The questions which the inquiry will aim to cover include:

• What is the current state of artificial intelligence? How is it likely to develop over the next 5, 10 and 20 years?
• Is the current level of excitement surrounding artificial intelligence warranted?
• How can the general public best be prepared for more widespread use of artificial intelligence?
• Who in society is gaining the most from the development and use of artificial intelligence? Who is gaining the least?
• Should the public's understanding of, and engagement with, artificial intelligence be improved?
• What are the key industry sectors that stand to benefit from the development and use of artificial intelligence?
• How can the data-based monopolies of some large corporations, and the ‘winner-takes-all' economics associated with them, be addressed?
• What are the ethical implications of the development and use of artificial intelligence?
• In what situations is a relative lack of transparency in artificial intelligence systems (so-called ‘black boxing') acceptable?
• What role should the Government take in the development and use of artificial intelligence in the UK?
• Should artificial intelligence be regulated?
• What lessons can be learnt from other countries or international organisations in their policy approach to artificial intelligence?

Lord Clement-Jones, Chairman of the Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence, said:

“This inquiry comes at a time when artificial intelligence is increasingly seizing the attention of industry, policymakers and the general public. The Committee wants to use this inquiry to understand what opportunities exist for society in the development and use of artificial intelligence, as well as what risks there might be.

“We are looking to be pragmatic in our approach, and want to make sure our recommendations to Government and others will be practical and sensible. There are significant questions to address relevant to both the present and the future, and we want to help inform the answers to them. To do this, we need the help of the widest range of people and organisations.

“If you are interested in artificial intelligence and any of its aspects, we want to hear from you. If you are interested in public policy, we want to hear from you. If you are interested in any of the issues raised by our call for evidence, we want to hear from you.”

The deadline for the submission of written evidence is 6 September 2017.

Click here to find out how to submit evidence.