technology
AI minister gains cabinet seat as technology department is abolished
The AI minister will attend cabinet meetings after the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology was eliminated. Responsibilities previously held by that department will be reassigned to other parts of government.
Jul 21, 5:15 AM·1m read1 source
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The AI minister will attend cabinet meetings following the abolition of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. The department was established in 2023. Its duties will now be distributed across other government departments, leaving no dedicated technology secretary position.
Narayan, who was appointed by Sir Keir Starmer, will continue responsibilities covering AI opportunities, the AI Security Institute, semiconductors and online safety. Narayan stated that the invitation to attend cabinet as minister for AI signals commitment to the technology's importance.
Hallas, head of the Startup Coalition, said the government should maintain momentum on technology policy after the department's closure. Professor Gina Neff of the University of Cambridge said elevating the AI minister to cabinet shows seriousness about the role. Professor Adam Beaumont of AQL said the immediate priority is ensuring reliable energy supply for data centers.
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