UK Government unveils new AI assurance platform

The newly launched platform is a one-stop resource for AI assurance, offering tools, services, and frameworks to help businesses manage AI-related risks. By consolidating resources, it provides clear guidance for building trust in AI systems, enabling impact assessments, bias checks, and responsible data use – ensuring safety and transparency in daily AI operations.

With the UK’s AI assurance sector valued at £1 billion and projected to reach £6.5 billion by 2035, the platform is set to drive significant economic growth. As AI adoption increases, demand for assurance services will position the UK as a global leader in responsible AI.

To support UK businesses, especially SMEs, the platform introduces the ‘AI Essentials Toolkit’ and upcoming AI Management Essentials (AIME) self-assessment tool, making AI governance more accessible. Shaped by industry feedback, AIME will guide enterprises in ethical AI practices, helping them make informed decisions in AI development and use.

Sachin Agrawal, Managing Director of Zoho UK, commented: “The AI assurance platform announcement from the Government is a welcome sign of progress to contribute to driving trust and providing guidance on the safest way to use AI."

“Companies that use AI should prioritise ethical considerations and responsible data practices in order to build customer trust. The tools and frameworks on offer will help to provide resources to ensure responsible data practices. Companies should still consider going further than guidelines or privacy regulation prescribes when adopting AI to ensure ethical usage which balances AI business benefits without compromising customer data, and to ensure any practices are fully transparent.”

“As AI continues to transform various sectors, the introduction of the assurance platform is not just a safeguard but encourages innovation and growth. While it is encouraging to see these steps towards safe use of AI, more robust regulations, educational guidance, and training remain crucial to ensure the development and deployment of ethical AI, and the success it can drive within business. Collaboration between government, business, academia and industry experts is critical to deliver this.”

Tristan Wilkinson, Chief for Public Sector at AND Digital, commented: “The UK’s focus on building an AI assurance platform is a pivotal move toward establishing trust in AI systems, and it presents a unique opportunity to lead in the field of AI ethics. As AI becomes integral to business operations and public services, the need for frameworks that ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability is paramount, especially for smaller businesses that may struggle to keep up with the rapid evolution of AI.”

“However, the government's AI innovation AND ethics approach is what is setting the UK apart in global discussions around AI safety. With AI’s influence expanding, the need for a clear, ethical framework will only intensify and the UK's proactive approach will ensure it remains at the forefront of the AI assurance market, setting a global standard for responsible AI development.”

The platform launch is also marked by a global collaboration. The UK’s AI Safety Institute (AISI) has partnered with Singapore to advance shared standards for AI safety, underscoring a shared commitment to responsible AI practices and aligned international standards.

The new platform underscores the UK’s determination to lead in AI trust and safety. Recent government initiatives reflect a growing alignment with international standards, reinforcing the UK's role as a global leader in responsible AI innovation.