By The Nexus Gazette.
02/08/2024.
In a significant policy shift, the new Labour government has decided to shelve the £1.3 billion funding previously promised for critical technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) projects. The plans, initially set forth by the Conservative government, included the development of an exascale supercomputer and substantial support for AI research.
Key Projects Affected
- Exascale Supercomputer at Edinburgh University (£800 million):
This ambitious project aimed to establish an exascale supercomputer at Edinburgh University, projected to be 50 times faster than any existing computer in the UK. Such a machine would have been a groundbreaking asset for researchers, enabling advanced modeling in fields like artificial intelligence, drug discovery, climate change, astrophysics, and engineering. Despite the project’s potential, it will no longer receive the promised £800 million in funding. The project had already seen an initial £31 million investment for building housing, signaling a strong commitment from the previous government. - AI Research Resource (£500 million):
This component of the funding was dedicated to enhancing the UK’s computing power for AI research. The fund was intended to strengthen the country’s AI capabilities, promoting innovation and technological advancement in this rapidly evolving field.
The Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT) clarified that the promised funds had not been officially allocated in the previous administration’s budget. The Conservative party, responsible for the initial pledge, faced criticism for underspending in the department. Secretary of State Peter Kyle communicated the decision to those affected, explaining that the funds were not available in the current budget.
UK technology secretary Michelle Donelan (right) and US commerce secretary Gina Raimondo signing the partnership on science of AI safety
The fate of the Edinburgh exascale supercomputer remains uncertain. However, Edinburgh University, a leading institution in supercomputing, has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the government on future technological advancements. They remain optimistic about the potential benefits such a supercomputer could bring to industry, public services, and society at large.
The tech sector, a cornerstone of the UK economy with a market value of $1.1 trillion (£863 billion) as of the first quarter of 2024, is undoubtedly impacted by this funding decision. While the setback is a disappointment for many in the industry, the government has reiterated its commitment to developing the UK’s technology infrastructure. Balancing economic stability with growth and innovation remains a key challenge.
Resources:
1.https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cyx5x44vnyeo
2.https://www.aol.com/news/government-shelves-1-3bn-uk-230426421.html