BCS policy recommendations for responsible AI:
BCS welcomes the government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan. In addition we believe responsible adoption and development of AI depends on trust that is built on strong professional standards and transparent, accountable and ethical oversight. As AI becomes central to economic growth and public services, the UK must ensure it is developed by competent IT professionals, with clear safeguards, public transparency, and investment in skills and education.
- Require AI practitioners to be professionally registered (ideally Chartered) to uphold standards of competence, ethics, and accountability.
- Align UK AI governance with international frameworks such as the EU AI Act, G7, and OECD guidelines.
- Ensure organisations, including the government, are transparent about AI use, and subject to independent audit.
- Engage with civic society and listen to their concerns about algorithmic decision making, and informed consent for AI products and services.
- Address workforce diversity and job displacement through inclusive recruitment and retraining initiatives.
- Promote AI education through reforms in computing education and public awareness campaigns.
- Expand digital skills training for all to increase understanding of the risks and opportunities of AI.
BCS news coverage and consultation responses on AI
BCS speaks regularly to government and a range of stakeholders to ensure that professional standards – and tech professionals themselves – are at the heart of AI’s development.
- BCS, responded to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s consultation on the proposed AI Growth Lab - a cross-economy sandbox designed to accelerate responsible AI innovation. Our submission highlights the importance of clarity, transparency, and robust oversight in enabling UK businesses to test AI solutions under carefully monitored regulatory flexibilities. By advocating for joined-up guidance across sectors, strong public trust safeguards, and practical support for SMEs, BCS aims to ensure that the Lab fosters growth while upholding ethical and technical standards.
Full list of BCS responses to all consultations available here
Articles, papers and reports
Take a look at our most recent papers and reports or view all of our published policy papers.
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We want AI to be a force for good, transforming every area of our lives from healthcare to the workplace.
By adding your name to the Open Letter, you agree the UK can help lead and implement international standards for how AI will ‘grow up’ responsibly and for the benefit of society.
