Law Society makes regulation recommendations ahead of AI Safety Summit

Press release
31 Oct 2023
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Ahead of the AI safety summit 2023 (1-2 November),* we have made artificial intelligence (AI) regulation recommendations for the government to consider.

The recommendations, made in response to the government’s white paper on regulation, include:

  • the expertise of the legal profession should be recognised and harnessed in the AI regulatory approach
  • legal professional privilege must be protected in the future regulation of AI
  • the UK Government should take a balanced approach to regulation to safeguard social interests while not impeding technological progression
  • legislation should establish parameters where the use of AI is unacceptable or where it is inappropriate for AI to make zero-sum decisions
  • the UK Government should set out a definition for ‘meaningful human intervention’ in AI
  • organisations should appoint an AI officer when needed
  • mandatory transparency is needed for the use of AI in government or public services and establishing a due diligence system to boost public trust.**

As the government prepares for its summit on AI, we are working with our members to show the benefits of AI for the legal profession,” our president Nick Emmerson said.

The legal profession plays an integral role in shaping the future of AI regulation. We recognise AI’s potential to transform lives, boost the economy and increase access to justice.

“However, our members need further clarity on legislation, procurement practices and how discrepancies across sectors will be mitigated to enable the profession to make the most of these technologies.”

Notes to editors

Our full response to the consultation can be found here

About the Law Society

The Law Society is the independent professional body that works globally to support and represent solicitors, promoting the highest professional standards, the public interest and the rule of law.

Press office contact: Louise Navarro-Cann | 020 8049 3715

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