The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) is planning to build a self-assessment tool for organisations to take a responsible approach in their development and use of AI systems.
Named AI Management Essentials (AIME), it will be available for all types of organisations, and DSIT has emphasised its potential to help public sector buyers make better and more informed decisions on the use of AI.
It has referred to the plan in a new report, Assuring a responsible future for AI, published in line with a new package of support for the safe development of the technology, including plans for an AI assurance platform.
The department has launched a consultation on the development of the self-assessment tool, saying it is aimed at ensuring it is fit for purpose.
The consultation document says that AIME will be designed to provide clarity around practical steps for establishing a baseline of good practice, and distils key principles from existing AI regulations, standards and frameworks. It will contain a self-assessment questionnaire, a scoring systems and recommendations for actions.
The proposed questions cover issues such as the AI system record, policy, fairness, data management, bias mitigation and data protection.
Transformation and safety
According to the report, there is a long term aim to embed the use of AIME within government procurement policy and frameworks. It also refers to the potential of AI to radically transform public services, but adds that it must be developed in a safe responsible way.
DSIT said the AI assurance platform will provide organisations with a one-stop-shop for information on the actions they can take to identify and mitigate the potential risks and harms posed by AI. This will focus on capitalising on the growing demand for AI assurance tools and services.
The department is also aiming to develop a roadmap to help navigate relevant international standards, and pointed to the provision of £200,000 in funding available for researchers under the AI Safety Institute’s Systemic AI Safety Grants programme.
Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Peter Kyle, said: “AI has incredible potential to improve our public services, boost productivity and rebuild our economy but, in order to take full advantage, we need to build trust in these systems which are increasingly part of our day to day lives.
“The steps I’m announcing today will help to deliver exactly that – giving businesses the support and clarity they need to use AI safely and responsibly while also making the UK a true hub of AI assurance expertise.”
