Government Hopes to Save Millions with Artificial Intelligence-Powered Tool

A pioneering artificial intelligence (AI) tool has been successfully tested in the UK, demonstrating its ability to sift through public views on sensitive topics like botox and fillers.

The tool, dubbed “Consult,” was used to analyze 2,000 submissions to a Scottish government consultation on regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

According to officials, Consult’s results were nearly identical to those of human experts, paving the way for its widespread adoption across government.

Consult is one of a suite of AI-powered tools collectively known as “Humphrey,” named after the wily senior civil servant from the classic sitcom Yes, Minister.

The technology has the potential to save taxpayers an estimated £20 million by automating time-consuming tasks and freeing up civil servants to focus on more pressing issues.

In this trial, Consult was tasked with identifying themes and cataloging answers among the responses. Human experts checked its work at both stages, verifying the accuracy of its findings. The technology secretary, Peter Kyle, has hailed the initial success of the trial, stating that Consult will be used across government “very soon.”

The government hopes to save £45 billion by implementing AI technology across the public sector. However, officials have also acknowledged the need for human oversight, ensuring that AI tools like Consult do not “hallucinate” or invent information.

To address concerns about bias, experts who worked with Consult found that it reduced overall bias by removing opportunities for individual human analysts to project their own preconceived ideas.

While Consult has been tested to handle language containing spelling mistakes and other errors, it currently only works in English. Responses in other languages spoken within the UK, such as Welsh, would need to be translated into English before being processed by the tool.

With its promising results, Consult is set to revolutionize the way the government collects and reviews public feedback. As the technology continues to evolve, it is likely to play a key role in shaping the future of public consultations in the UK.