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visionaries Network Team

18 April, 2026

ai vr and automation

Liz Kendall urges the UK public to embrace AI as the government boosts artificial intelligence investment, focusing on AI jobs, economic growth, and the future of work in the UK.

In a strong push toward a tech-driven future, UK Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall has urged the public to embrace AI, highlighting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in driving economic growth, improving productivity, and reshaping the future of work in the United Kingdom. The UK government’s pro-AI stance comes alongside a significant funding boost, reinforcing its ambition to position the country as a global leader in AI innovation.

Speaking amid growing debate around AI risks and job displacement, Kendall emphasized that artificial intelligence should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a threat. She acknowledged public concerns around automation, job losses, and data security, but stressed that embracing AI technology will unlock new industries, create high-value jobs, and enhance efficiency across sectors including healthcare, finance, education, and public services. This reflects the broader trend of how artificial intelligence is transforming the future of work in the UK.

The UK government’s AI strategy includes a major sovereign AI fund, designed to support AI startups, AI research, and advanced computing infrastructure. This investment aims to accelerate AI adoption, boost the UK tech ecosystem, and ensure the country remains competitive in the global AI race against the United States and China. Experts see this as a key move in UK government investment in artificial intelligence startups and innovation.

Kendall also highlighted the importance of AI skills development, calling for increased focus on digital skills, machine learning education, and workforce reskilling to prepare citizens for an AI-powered economy. She noted that collaboration between government, private sector, and educational institutions will be critical in building a resilient and future-ready workforce, aligning with AI skills development and workforce reskilling initiatives in the UK economy.

The call to embrace AI comes at a time when artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming global markets, with businesses investing heavily in AI tools, automation technologies, and data-driven innovation. While concerns around AI ethics, regulation, and safety remain, the UK government continues to promote responsible AI development through balanced policies, reflecting challenges and opportunities of artificial intelligence adoption in the UK.

As artificial intelligence becomes central to economic strategy, Kendall’s message is clear: embracing AI is essential for national growth, global competitiveness, and long-term prosperity in the digital age.