The UK government’s Science and Technology Committee has launched an inquiry into robotics and artificial intelligence.
Speaking about the inquiry, Nicola Blackwood MP, said:
“Robots are now beating humans at even the most complex games, like Go. Artificial intelligence (AI) will play an increasing role in our lives over the coming years. From navigation systems to medical treatments and from new manufacturing techniques to unmanned vehicles, new applications are rapidly being developed that involve robotic decision making.
“It is important that the UK is ready with the research, innovation and skills to be able to fully take advantage of the opportunities and manage any risks. The global market for the AI sector is expected to grow to $2-6 trillion by 2025,” she concluded.
The news comes after the UK Government identified robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) as one of the ‘Eight Great Technologies’ in 2012.
The Committee welcomes written submissions on robotics and artificial intelligence by 29 April, including on the following issues:
- The implications of robotics and artificial intelligence on the future UK workforce and job market, and the Government’s preparation for the shift in the UK skills base and training that this may require.
- The extent to which social and economic opportunities provided by emerging autonomous systems and artificial intelligence technologies are being exploited to deliver benefits to the UK.
- The extent to which the funding, research and innovation landscape facilitates the UK maintaining a position at the forefront of these technologies, and what measures the Government should take to assist further in these areas.
- The social, legal and ethical issues raised by developments in robotics and artificial intelligence technologies, and how they should be addressed.
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