UK risks falling behind in AI race if it does not invest in more data centres, says Google

Google has issued a stark warning that the United Kingdom may fall behind in the global race for artificial intelligence (AI) dominance unless it swiftly increases investment in data centres and adjusts policies to allow tech companies more freedom to use copyrighted materials in AI models.

The tech giant highlighted the need for the UK government to act decisively to maintain its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Current position and required actions
Research cited by Google places the UK seventh in a global AI readiness index, which measures data and infrastructure capabilities. However, Google’s UK Managing Director, Debbie Weinstein, expressed concerns that despite the UK’s strong foundation in AI, a lack of proactive policy changes could see the country lose its leadership position.

Google has suggested that the UK government needs to focus on building a robust AI infrastructure, which includes increasing the number of data centres and providing more support for AI research and development.

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A key recommendation from Google is the creation of a “national research cloud,” a publicly funded initiative that would provide essential computing power and data access to startups and academic institutions.

This initiative is seen as crucial for developing AI models like those powering ChatGPT and other advanced AI technologies. Google also emphasised the importance of updating the UK’s copyright laws to facilitate the use of copyrighted materials in AI training, a practice known as text and data mining (TDM).

The company argued that relaxing restrictions on TDM for non-commercial purposes could significantly boost AI research and development.

What the UK government plans on doing
The call for increased investment comes at a time when AI projects in the UK have faced setbacks due to budget cuts. The Labour government, led by Keir Starmer, recently scaled back funding commitments, including an £800 million investment in an exascale supercomputer, which is considered vital for AI research, and a further £500 million for the AI Research Resource.

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Despite these cutbacks, Google remains hopeful that the government’s upcoming AI action plan, overseen by tech entrepreneur Matt Clifford, will outline comprehensive strategies to bolster the UK’s AI infrastructure and capabilities.

Google’s recommendations extend beyond infrastructure to include the introduction of AI in public services and the creation of a national skills service to help the workforce adapt to the growing influence of AI.

The company also supports a “pro-innovation” regulatory approach, advocating for the continued use of existing regulations rather than the introduction of new ones. This approach aligns with Google’s stance on maintaining a flexible regulatory environment that encourages AI development while ensuring safety and public trust.

As the UK government prepares to draft new AI legislation, it faces the challenge of balancing the need for rapid technological advancement with the protection of public interest.

The AI opportunities action plan, driven by Clifford, aims to ensure that the UK has the necessary infrastructure, skills, and data access to fully capitalise on AI’s potential while developing regulations that reinforce public confidence in the technology.

In summary, Google’s warnings underscore the urgency for the UK to ramp up its AI investments and policy reforms to remain a global leader in AI innovation. The company’s proposals highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy that supports AI development while addressing regulatory and ethical concerns.