UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called for an international effort to establish common standards for artificial intelligence, warning that rapid advances in the technology could outpace existing safeguards and create growing national security risks.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Burnham said Britain was prepared to play a leading role in international efforts to improve AI safety and governance. He stressed that governments needed to respond to concerns surrounding the rapid development and deployment of increasingly capable AI systems.
Burnham highlighted the UK's AI Security Institute, which works with the United States and leading AI laboratories on issues related to the safety of advanced artificial intelligence. He said Britain would need to take its efforts further as the technology continues to develop.
The British government is also expected to use its upcoming G20 presidency to promote international cooperation on AI. The focus will include discussions around transparency, safety and access, with the aim of developing common principles for the responsible use of the technology.
Burnham linked the need for stronger AI safeguards to wider national security concerns, including potential cyber threats and the spread of disinformation. At the same time, he acknowledged the potential benefits of AI across areas such as healthcare, education and the economy.
He said international cooperation would be essential to ensure that the development of artificial intelligence delivers benefits while keeping potential risks under control.