Brits Demand New Legislation on Artificial Intelligence
RealWire
Wed, 09/06/2017 - 07:08

A new study from MACHINA Summit.AI published today shows that the overwhelming majority of Brits (75%) believe that the UK needs new regulations to control artificial intelligence. These findings come in the wake of Tesla boss Elon Musk’s recent dire warnings that ‘AI is our biggest risk existential threat.’

The survey reveals that 44% believe the UK Government should lead new AI regulations. 28% prefer an independent global body to take control, with just 11% wanting the technology industry to head it up. Post-Brexit, the EU gained a paltry 8% support.

Musk, with the support of 114 experts from 26 different countries, recently called on the UN to ban killer robots. Musk is concerned about the potential use of lethal autonomous weapons - drones, machine guns, tanks - on the battlefield. If ever used, the devastating effects of such weaponry on mankind will be catastrophic.

Bradley Maule-ffinch, Director of Strategy for MACHINA Summit.AI, stated: “The results reveal that - although 65% agree with Zuckerberg’s view that AI has the potential to make the world better - people do want it to be closely regulated. Just over four in ten people believe the Government is best placed to do this, although the rest disagree or are undecided on who should lead on AI legislation. We look forward to hear more on the subject at MACHINA Summit.AI 2017, where experts such as Professor Brian Cox and Professor Stuart Russell will give their views on how AI should continue to evolve in the future.”