King's Speech on AI & cybersecurity sparks mixed reactions

Today's King's Speech has caused varied reactions from industry leaders, heavily concerning cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI).

The UK government’s plans to modernise cybersecurity rules and introduce legislation on AI models have generated both praise and criticism.

CEO of Flexxon, Camellia Chan, expressed her disappointment over the lack of focus on cybersecurity, particularly concerning healthcare services.

"While it's positive that technology and AI generally are front-of-mind for the UK, it's disappointing that combatting cyber crime - and specifically keeping healthcare services safe - were not a greater priority in today's King's Speech," she told TechDay.

Chan highlighted that healthcare sectors, ranging from national health services to small hospitals and pharmacies, remain prime targets for cybercriminals.

She stressed the dire consequences of such attacks. "The consequences of such attacks can extend far beyond financial losses and directly impact patient care."

"This can result in delays in receiving vital medication, medical results being unavailable, and facilities closing, all which could be fatal," she said.

Chan urged health organisations and the government to invest in the latest cyber innovations to prevent further damage.

Meanwhile, CEO of Darktrace, Poppy Gustafsson, applauded the commitment to modernising cybersecurity rules.

"Technology presents a huge opportunity for the UK not only through attention-grabbing innovations like generative AI but also the benefits created by increasingly connected factories and digitised supply chains. However, with increasingly connected technology, also come growing cyber threats," Gustafsson said.

She noted that the UK is the third most targeted country globally for cyber attacks, trailing only the U.S. and Ukraine.

Gustafsson stressed the importance of a proactive approach to cybersecurity, which should involve identifying vulnerabilities and potential attacks before they cause damage.

"We also need to reduce the number of weak links the country faces across critical national infrastructure, the public sector and strategically important businesses," she said.

Reflecting on the government's AI legislation proposals, AI Governance Specialist at Saidot, Bruna de Castro e Silva, stressed the need for regulatory clarity.

"Regulation is not just about setting restrictions on AI development; it's about providing the clarity and guidance needed to promote safe and sustainable innovation," she said.

She outlined that Keir Starmer's plans for AI legislation signify a significant shift from past government approaches. She argued that the most powerful AI models are not the only ones carrying risks, suggesting that all AI systems should be regulated according to their risk levels.

Silva is also calling for legal certainty for smaller businesses to navigate AI policies and regulations effectively.

"Legislation is just the first step towards responsible AI; Starmer’s government must go a step further to educate people, promoting digital skills and AI literacy policies and programmes, and support businesses in mitigating risks accordingly if the UK is to harness AI to its full potential," she stressed.

Head of Connected Technology at KPMG UK, Paul Henninger, also welcomed the AI legislation, acknowledging it as a "step forward" for the UK's leadership in AI.

"New legislation will help to enhance the UK's standing as a leader in AI and put the country in greater alignment with other countries and bodies making strides in this area," he said.

Henninger stressed the necessity for businesses to have the freedom to innovate without fear of inadvertently violating regulations. He highlighted the need for industry consultation and sector-specific considerations to achieve a nuanced balance.

"If progressive AI legislation can be achieved, it will help attract both essential domestic and international investment to fuel economic growth," he added.