Ryan FowlerArtificial intelligence has the potential to improve public services, but it must be deployed in a way that protects jobs and prioritises ethical use, according to UNISON. The union’s comments come in response to the government’s launch of its AI Opportunities Action Plan.
UNISON policy officer Kate Jones said: “Artificial intelligence (AI) has the power to revolutionise the world of work. But if AI is to play a positive role in public services, it must be managed carefully and responsibly. That means proper input from workers and all parts of society to ensure it’s not only the voice of big tech being heard.”
Jones emphasised that AI should not be used as a tool to reduce costs at the expense of human input: “UK workers have vast expertise and insight that can help shape AI development in ways to benefit everyone. The technology must be used to enhance jobs and services, not cut corners, costs and human input.”
She added that lessons from history highlight the benefits of involving workers in technological change. “History shows that when workers have a real say in how new technologies are developed and used, society is all the better for it,” Jones said.
UNISON also raised concerns over the potential risks of AI use in the public sector, including issues around data privacy, bias, and transparency in decision-making. “AI in the public sector has huge implications, from data privacy to bias and discrimination. The public needs to know their concerns are being addressed,” said Jones. “No one wants their details being misused by tech giants or biased algorithms making decisions about their welfare on the sly.”
As the government rolls out its AI strategy, UNISON is calling for greater involvement from workers and unions to ensure AI is implemented in a way that benefits society as a whole.
