EMMA RODDICK SET TO LEAD MEMBERS’ BUSINESS DEBATE ON DANGERS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Emma Roddick MSP is set to lead a Members’ Business Debate on Tuesday 29th October, calling on members of the Scottish Parliament to recognise the dangers of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The debate comes after a motion lodged by Ms Roddick gained cross-party support earlier this year.

The SNP MSP believes that, for AI to operate safely, policymakers must understand how it works and what the dangers are and take action to protect people from the harm it may cause.

Speaking on the debate, Ms Roddick said:

“Particularly in the Highlands and Islands, where remote work and the embracing of new technologies are actively encouraged, the online world is many people’s workplace.  Like anyone else, they have the right to safety in the workplace.

“AI is developing so quickly and becoming inescapable for those who use technology; it is being incorporated into all aspects of our lives.  We can see the risks, and we even have people responsible for developing AI models requesting that governments effectively regulate their industry. 

“We need to talk more seriously and urgently about the correct limits to place on what is an extremely fast-growing technology with potential far beyond its current operation.  We are seeing AI increasingly play a part in the sharing of information – and disinformation – about current foreign affairs and elections.  It is becoming harder for people to tell the difference between real and AI-generated videos, articles, music, and even people.  So, how far are we comfortable with AI going?  That’s the question I want legislators in the UK to try to answer as quickly as possible – because it will become more difficult as time goes on to row back on AI’s reach.

“As elected representatives, we can recognise and grasp the opportunities of AI, but we must also fully understand the wider implications and protect people from harm – whether it’s disinformation, misuse of personal information, or lack of income opportunities as more employers turn to AI automation.  I look forward to having a productive debate.”

The debate will take place Tuesday 29th October following Decision Time. You can watch it on Parliament TV here.