UK Government Signs OpenAI Deal to Boost Public Services
The UK government has signed a new agreement with OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, to explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) across public services, including education and the justice system.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle described the move as a step towards driving “economic growth” and improving public sector productivity.
The agreement sets out plans to work together on building the technology needed for AI and finding ways to keep the public safe.
It also includes the possibility of sharing government data to improve how AI tools are trained.
While not legally binding, the deal signals intent for deeper cooperation.
OpenAI will also expand its London presence, which currently includes over 100 employees.
Its CEO, Sam Altman, believes the partnership could “deliver prosperity for all.”
Experts like Dr. Gordon Fletcher of the University of Salford believe it has the potential to free up civil servants for more complex tasks but warned of the need for transparency and ethical implementation.
However, the agreement has sparked criticism from digital rights groups.
Martha Dark of campaign group Foxglove labelled it “hopelessly vague,” raising concerns about the use of public data for commercial gain.
She added: “Peter Kyle seems bizarrely determined to put the big tech fox in charge of the henhouse.”
The deal is part of a broader push by the Labour government to embrace AI as a driver of economic recovery.
However, critics say it prioritises US tech firms over UK innovation while raising new concerns about data privacy and copyright.
The government is already using OpenAI’s technology internally through an AI assistant tool called “Humphrey.”