Keir Starmer’s Labour government is unveiling a bold strategy to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to drive the UK’s economic growth and public service innovation. But as AI becomes a cornerstone of the country’s future, the focus is also on the workforce—and how to ensure workers thrive alongside these technological changes.
Starmer’s AI blueprint promises to add up to £47bn annually to the UK economy and create thousands of new jobs, with £14bn in investment already pledged by leading tech firms. The government plans to build AI growth zones, starting with Culham, Oxfordshire, to attract businesses and foster innovation. But amid this rapid transformation, workers’ rights and job security are at the forefront of the conversation.
Unions, led by Sharon Graham from Unite, are raising concerns about the disruptive impact AI could have on working conditions. From fears of job displacement to issues like AI-powered surveillance and algorithmic discrimination, there’s a call for robust worker protections. “AI must be introduced in a way that benefits workers, not exploits them,” Graham stressed, advocating for a unified approach between the government, employers, and unions.
The government’s AI strategy includes a focus on using AI to improve public services, making them more efficient and responsive to citizens’ needs. While the technology promises to alleviate workers from repetitive tasks, giving them more time for creative and human-centred roles, experts agree that careful oversight is crucial. AI should inform decisions, but not make them entirely, ensuring that humans remain at the helm of critical choices in the workplace.
The strategy also highlights the need for reskilling. With the rise of AI, workers must adapt, and employers need to proactively offer training and development. Hayfa Mohdzaini from the CIPD emphasises that cross-team collaboration and skill-building are key to ensuring that workers are not left behind in the AI revolution. “The HR profession should be at the forefront of discussions about AI’s ethical and responsible use in organisations,” she said.
While AI presents tremendous opportunities, the government’s success will depend on balancing innovation with fairness. Clear, stable policies that prioritise worker protections, ethical AI practices, and investment in reskilling will ensure that the UK’s workforce is ready for the challenges and opportunities AI will bring.
Starmer’s vision may promise an AI-powered future, but a workforce-centred approach is essential to make sure that future works for everyone.
