Debate around the potential uses and risks of artificial intelligence (AI) in the public sector has been ongoing for several years. While no regulation currently exists around AI in the UK, it could be timely for local authorities to look at upcoming regulation in other parts of the world and carry out an AI audit to consider what the future impacts could be.

AI is increasingly being used in the UK public sector to automate routine processes. Chatbots, for example, are now widely used to answer common questions. While there are currently no rules around the use of AI in the UK, we are starting to see other countries legislate. The Netherlands now requires public authorities to audit algorithms’ impact on human rights. The EU AI Act is expected by the end of June 2024.