Brits have concerns about AI being used in the NHS and other government sectors
Ipsos in the UK has published its latest findings from its comprehensive AI Tracker survey, which highlights public opinion on the integration and adoption of AI technologies in public services.
The data shows six in ten (60%) of Brits believe that the government should adopt a cautious approach to AI, prioritising job protection and giving people enough time to adapt over rapid development.
Just under a quarter (23%) want to see rapid AI adoption to position the UK as a leader in AI-driven job creation. Almost half (47%) believe that the UK government should prioritise developing its own AI infrastructure.
Notably, half (52%) of Britons prefer the NHS to continue using human-led triage systems, citing trust in human judgment and a desire for personal interaction. By comparison, 38% support the use of AI to expedite the triage process, primarily to reduce waiting times. Notably, women are more inclined (59%) than men (44%) to favour human-led triage.
Four in ten (41%) Britons are comfortable with AI handling administrative tasks in the public sector to save costs. However, comfort drops to 32% if it results in job losses, with 42% feeling uncomfortable under such circumstances.
Over two thirds (66%) of Britons are uncomfortable with AI being used in weapons to select and engage targets without human involvement.
“The British public’s nuanced views on AI underscore a preference for human interaction and cautious technological advancement, particularly in public services,” said Daniel Cameron, Research Director at Ipsos.
“While there’s a recognition of AI’s potential to enhance efficiency, especially in reducing NHS waiting times, there remains a significant trust in human judgment, particularly in sensitive areas like healthcare. The findings, notably the gender difference in preferences for AI in the NHS, spotlight the importance of tailored efforts to build trust across different demographic groups.”
Concerns about AI’s impact on public sector jobs and its use in autonomous weapons systems reflect broader societal worries about governance and ethical implications of technological progress, Cameron noted.
“As the UK develops its approach to AI, these insights highlight how the public are carefully weighing the potential benefits of the technology against the risks of negative impacts for society and the economy.”
