Artificial Intelligence in High Places
The governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, has been using artificial intelligence (AI) to help him with his official speeches. Specifically, he uses a tool called Copilot, which is owned by Microsoft, to edit and shorten his speeches to fit within a given time frame. This practice has raised some eyebrows among politicians, who are concerned about the increasing use of AI in financial services and other areas of public life.
The Use of AI in Speechwriting
According to a source at the Bank of England, Bailey uses Copilot to input a draft of his speech and then asks the software to cut it down to the right length. The original version of the speech is later published on the Bank’s website. This use of AI is seen as a way to make the speechwriting process more efficient, particularly when time is limited.
Concerns About AI Use
However, some politicians have expressed concerns about the use of AI in speechwriting. Dame Harriett Baldwin, a Conservative MP, warned that the use of AI must be approached with caution, saying "You have to be extra careful with using it — including the Bank of England." Another MP, Sir Iain Duncan Smith, was more critical, suggesting that the use of AI in speechwriting could lead to a lack of authenticity and even questioning whether the governor is still in control.
The Broader Trend of! AI Adoption
The use of AI in speechwriting is not limited to the governor of the Bank of England. Other politicians are also starting to use AI tools to help them with their work. For example, the Labour MP Mike Reader uses AI to respond to constituents’ emails, saying it is the only way to manage the large volume of correspondence he receives. Additionally, there are concerns that the use of AI could lead to a homogenization of language and ideas, with some MPs accusing their colleagues of using ChatGPT-generated phrases in their speeches.
The implications of AI on Politics
The increasing use of AI in politics has significant implications for the way our political system functions. On one hand, AI can help politicians to work more efficiently and effectively, allowing them to focus on the issues that matter most. On the other hand, there is a risk that the use of AI could lead to a lack of authenticity and a homogenization of ideas, which could undermine the democratic process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of AI in speechwriting by the governor of the Bank of England is just one example of the increasing adoption of AI in high places. While AI has the potential to bring many benefits, it also raises important questions about authenticity, accountability, and the impact on our political system. As AI becomes more prevalent in our lives, it is essential that we consider these questions carefully and ensure that its use is transparent, responsible, and aligned with the values of our democracy.
