Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has called on the regulator Ofcom to take “immediate action” to protect children from the dangerous elements of AI chatbots.
Kendall told parliament on Wednesday evening that the regulator must use its existing powers to ensure AI chatbots are safe children, amid growing concern in the Tech Department about the dangers they pose.
The tech secretary also noted that the government will consider how AI chatbot interactions could fit into the existing Online Safety Act framework.
“Children are growing up in a world shaped by AI, and we must keep pace,” said Kendall.
“While I urge the regulator to use existing powers to protect children from the dangers of AI chatbots, I am also considering what more can be done.
“Ofcom has my backing in setting out what is expected of AI chatbots and what enforcement action awaits those firms that fail in their duties.”
The government has committed to hosting a child safety summit next year that will include experts, tech companies, civil society and young people, who will explore how AI can benefit children without exposing them to harm.
Legislative action has already been made to criminalise the use of AI to create child sexual abuse material, with ministers said to be engaging with AI firms and children’s organisations to push for stronger safety standards.
