UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to announce new digital reforms that will see AI replace some civil servants' tasks. The proposed changes aim to increase efficiency and reduce costs, with an estimated £45 billion in savings.
The new digital mantra emphasizes that no person's time should be spent on tasks that can be done better, quicker, and to the same standard by digital or AI means. This shift is expected to impact various roles, particularly those involving repetitive or administrative tasks.
Starmer's plans also include the creation of 2,000 tech apprenticeship positions and reductions in regulations and the involvement of some quasi-non-governmental organizations (quangos).
While some unions have expressed skepticism about the plans, citing concerns about job losses and the need for reforms to be undertaken in partnership with staff and unions.
The integration of AI in the civil service is not new, as tools like Redbox and Consult are already being used to augment policy-making processes. However, the proposed reforms mark a significant step towards embracing AI-driven efficiency in the public sector.
