Artificial intelligence provides ‘golden alternative’ to spice up economic system, Keir Starmer says

Keir Starmer has claimed artificial intelligence offers a “golden opportunity” to boost the economy.

The Prime Minister said the technology could impact almost every area of people’s lives across the country, as he encouraged young people to get involved.

During a visit to Google’s new AI campus in London, Mr Starmer insisted: “There is a race on now, for AI, we are well-placed in that race.”

He said: “Whether that’s better treatments for cancer and other diseases and faster diagnoses, or in education, with personalised learning helping every child go as far as their talent will take them. Or in defence, ensuring our national security in a more volatile world.”

The PM added: “Make no mistake – this is a golden opportunity to drive growth, raise living standards, and put money into people’s pockets.”

Google said its new campus – based in Mr Starmer’s St Pancras and Holborn constituency – aims to inspire a new generation of AI-talent. The internet giant said it will be home to a two-year pilot for sixth-form students across Camden.

Managing Director for Google UK and Ireland Debbie Weinstein said: “Google is so proud to partner with Camden Learning to launch the AI Campus, an educational pilot that serves to create the next generation of AI leaders.

“We believe that AI’s enormous opportunities should be accessible to all and this groundbreaking initiative, by empowering the next generation to learn vital digital skills, will be key in supporting the UK to unlock AI’s £400bn economic potential.”

Last month the billionaire Microsoft founder Bill Gates highlighted the benefits of AI to help people access medical care and education. But he described the technology to The Mirror as “wondrous and a little bit scary”.

“We have had nuclear weapons for a very long time, so far so good, we have bio-terrorism and it’s possible non-nation states can access those things and we have AI,” he added.