The Institute for Public Policy Research has released a new report that examines the impact of generative AI on the UK workforce. It also calls for a clearer government directive on AI’s place in the workplace.
According to an analysis of 22,000 white-collar jobs performed by workers, up to 70% of them could be replaced or significantly changed by AI. The biggest impact will be on cognitive and analytical tasks, organisational and strategy responsibilities. This raises questions about how companies will adapt to the changes and their broader impact on employment.
The report, which was released before the international AI summit, attended by leaders from around the world and technology executives warns that AI’s rapid development needs greater democratic oversight. The report identifies AI-driven changes as having a significant impact on the knowledge economy. This includes roles in marketing, project management and administration.
AI has a profound impact on personal relationships, even outside of professional settings. Around 930,000 UK residents use AI digital companions via platforms like Character.AI or Replika. These AI systems are often used by users to form romantic relationships. They can be a source of emotional support, but they also carry the risk of addiction or long-term psychological effects.
A clear AI strategy is needed
IPPR claims that AI policies are too focused on accelerating adoption and mitigating risk, without setting clear objectives for the societal role of AI. The organization is calling for “a new politics of AI” where policymakers and businesses work together to set specific goals for AI deployment.
The Paris AI Action Summit is an opportunity for government to move towards AI policies that are mission-based. IPPR says that AI innovation should focus on solving critical challenges such as improving education, tackling climate change and improving healthcare.
IPPR says that a mission-based approach would include setting clear policies, delineating tax and regulatory frameworks and establishing measurable goals and funding mechanisms. It would also ensure effective oversight.
Carsten Jung said that AI capabilities are improving at a breath-taking pace. AI agents are a new way to look at AI. It’s not just a tool, it’s an actor. AI technology will have a profound impact on the economy and society. It will create jobs, replace old ones and destroy others. It can also trigger new products and services.
He said that AI offers significant opportunities but its potential needs to be used for broader societal goals.
Politics must catch up to the impact of powerful AI. We need to decide what we want to accomplish, and not just ensure AI models are secure. This requires a democratic debate, and a close examination of the way AI is used. Public will want to participate in defining clear missions and limits. “The promise of AI is tantalising. We all have a stake to direct and achieve it.”
