The Labour government has outlined its legislative agenda for the new Parliament in the King’s Speech, focusing on cyber security, data sharing, and skills for IT professionals, but excluding AI regulation at this time.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the government’s goal is to achieve sustainable growth by promoting investment in industry, skills, and new technologies. The measures in the King’s Speech are aimed at national renewal and economic growth, delivering security, opportunity, prosperity, and justice for all citizens.
The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill will enhance digital services’ protection and address supply chain attacks, while the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill will utilize data for economic growth and support a modern digital government. Additionally, the Skills England Bill will establish a new body to improve the skills system and address shortages in areas such as cyber security and AI.
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill aims to expedite major infrastructure projects, including the construction of data centers. While there were expectations for AI regulation, the government plans to introduce legislation to mandate requirements for AI model development but not specific AI legislation.
The Hillsborough Law will enforce transparency and accountability within public services, addressing issues such as the Post Office scandal. Technology trade association TechUK welcomed the new legislation but stressed the importance of industry consultation, while the BCS called for more information on AI regulation. The Social Market Foundation emphasized the need for a simplified skills system to address rapid technological advancements.