AI Opportunity Forum
You know, boost productivity, growth, the usual AI buzzwords. But here we are, meetings two and almost done, and what exactly have they achieved?
So, the AI Opportunity Forum patrolled into Number 10 yet again for their, wait for it, penultimate meeting. That's right, the one before the last. Mustering the usual suspects from tech and business, Secretary Donelan and Lord Petitgas – the Prime Minister's business buddy, no doubt – were there to flog Britain's oh-so-pro-innovation approach to artificial intelligence.
Let's not forget, this whole forum business was the PM's grand idea back in January. February's confab focused on getting more firms on the AI bandwagon – you know, boost productivity, growth, the usual buzzwords. But here we are, meetings two and almost done, and what exactly have they achieved? Apparently, they're still nattering about this mysterious product that'll supposedly lure every company, from your corner shop to a Silicon Roundabout whizz-kid startup, into the world of AI.
So, the government is launching this grand new "Tech Forum" – a supposed meeting of the brightest minds to guide us into the digital future. But let's take a closer look at who's actually been appointed, shall we?
Co-chairing this illustrious gathering: Michelle Donelan, the Tech Secretary whose grasp of the sector seems about as firm as a toddler's on a smartphone. And then there's Franck Pettigas, the Prime Minister's Business Adviser – a man so shrouded in mystery, one wonders if he even owns a laptop.
Moving on to the rest of this, ahem, "expert" panel:
- Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK: Fine, a solid tech player, though hardly a revolutionary choice.
- Debbie Weinstein, Google UK and Ireland MD: Let's just say Ms. Weinstein might have a vested interest in how this forum shapes regulations...
- Vishal Marria, Quantexa CEO: Now this is interesting. A data analytics firm, perfect for this new world... unless you value privacy.
- Rene Haas, Arm CEO: Another heavyweight, but will he be pushing for UK dominance in chip design, or just Arm's own interests?
The list continues: a property developer (Jennie Daly), a supermarket boss (Ken Murphy), a banker (C.S. Venkatakrishnan). Are we sure this isn't just a posh networking event for the captains of industry?
There are a few bright spots: Greg Jackson of Octopus Energy for his green credentials, and Margherita Della Valle of Vodafone for her telecoms expertise. But even then, is this the best we can muster?
Emma Walmsley from GSK? Lucian Grainge from the music industry? Don't get me wrong, these are successful people, but where's the vision? Where's the fresh thinking on AI, cybersecurity, or the future of work?
Rounding out the group: Steve Hare (accounting software), Jack Hidary (cybersecurity – a good choice!), Edward Braham (investment management), a private equity exec (Simon Patterson), and a lawyer (Laura Cameron).
This Tech Forum seems less like a path to a digital future and more like a game of corporate musical chairs. Is this really the best the government can do? Perhaps it's time to hit the refresh button on this whole thing.
One can only hope this forum actually delivers something tangible besides another round of backslapping and vague pronouncements. Otherwise, British businesses might be left wondering – is this AI revolution all talk and no trousers?
