Chancellor Rachel Reeves is being urged to seize the moment and use artificial intelligence to “Make Britain Great Again”, as business leaders and technology experts warn that AI may be the only route to growth in a Budget constrained by Labour’s tax promises.
The calls come as the government prepares to announce thousands of new AI-related jobs and billions of pounds of investment in a bid to boost productivity and reboot the stalled UK economy. Measures expected on Wednesday include the creation of a new AI Growth Zone in South Wales, forecast to deliver more than 5,000 jobs over the next decade, and £137 million to support leading scientists developing new drugs, treatments and advanced medical technologies.
Patrick Sullivan, CEO of the Parliament Street think tank, said Reeves’ fiscal room for manoeuvre has been severely limited.
“With Labour’s absurd manifesto pledge ruling out income tax rises, the Chancellor is now forced to cobble together a quick-fix solution to fill a black hole that is entirely of her own making,” he said. “The one saving grace is the advent of mass AI adoption — a technology that can deliver enormous efficiencies when the government needs them most. This is Labour’s chance to show it understands private enterprise and recognise that AI can truly make Britain Great Again.”
Support authors and subscribe to content
This is premium stuff. Subscribe to read the entire article.
