UK Technology Secretary uses ChatGPT for advice on media and AI
As AI adoption in UK businesses lags, Peter Kyle sought ChatGPT’s advice, sparking discussions on AI’s benefits, limitations, and ethical considerations in government.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has been using ChatGPT to seek advice on media appearances and to define technical terms related to his role.
His records, obtained by New Scientist through freedom of information laws, reveal that he asked the AI tool for recommendations on which podcasts to feature and for explanations of terms like ‘digital inclusion’ and ‘anti-matter.’
ChatGPT suggested The Infinite Monkey Cage and The Naked Scientists due to their broad reach and scientific focus.
Kyle also inquired why small and medium-sized businesses in the UK have been slow to adopt AI. The chatbot pointed to factors such as a lack of awareness about government initiatives, funding limitations, and concerns over data protection regulations like GDPR.
While AI adoption remains a challenge, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has praised its potential, arguing that the UK government should embrace AI more to improve efficiency.
Despite Kyle’s enthusiasm for AI, he has faced criticism for allegedly prioritising the interests of Big Tech over Britain’s creative industries. Concerns have been raised over a proposed policy that could allow tech firms to train AI on copyrighted material without permission unless creators opt out.
His department defended his use of AI, stating that while he utilises the tool, it does not replace expert advice from officials.
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