UK to Launch National Information Defence Centre and Seek Global AI Standards

Mr. Burnham stated that recent years have witnessed an “industrial-scale assault by hostile actors on the information environment” across the UK and among its allies.

He informed global leaders that “Russian agencies have utilized every available tool to disseminate falsehoods, spread disinformation, and exploit public fears,” leveraging bots, fraudulent websites, and fabricated news articles.

Election Interference and the AI Threat

“They have amplified far-right narratives, and we possess evidence indicating attempts to interfere in the 2019 General Election,” he asserted. “Furthermore, we have observed efforts to exacerbate tensions and incite unrest in the aftermath of tragic events.”

The proliferation of false information online contributed to riots in Southport in July 2024, following the tragic stabbing of three young girls at a dance class.

Mr. Burnham noted that the Kremlin allocates approximately $1.7 billion annually to manipulate information, while British corporations and institutions have also fallen victim to cyberattacks.

“We also recognize that artificial intelligence will significantly amplify these threats,” he added.

Combating Disinformation and Strengthening Security

The Prime Minister announced the establishment of a new National Centre for Information Defence, designed to detect, attribute, and disrupt information attacks while safeguarding the nation’s democracy.

Leveraging its expertise, the UK intends to assist other nations, building on its prior support for Moldova in safeguarding elections against alleged Russian interference.

“With upcoming elections across Europe, many countries are confronting these challenges, some for the first time,” he remarked.

“Consequently, we are prepared to share our insights into how these adversaries operate and how we can effectively respond, as this is essential for our collective security and resilience.”

UK-US Partnership on Artificial Intelligence

Regarding artificial intelligence, Mr. Burnham characterized frontier AI—the pinnacle of technological advancement—as “one of the most significant challenges and opportunities of our era.”

He unveiled plans for a new AI defence partnership with the United States, aimed at protecting critical national infrastructure.

Support for Global AI Principles

He emphasized that fundamental decisions regarding AI “are too critical to be left to chance” and “must be made by elected governments that represent the working public.”

In this context, the UK will facilitate collaboration among key stakeholders to maximize AI’s benefits for good while actively managing associated risks.

“We will strive to establish a unified set of global principles and standards to promote the transparency and accessibility necessary to enhance our preparedness and ensure the safe development of AI,” he stated.

The United Nations continues to advocate that the most effective strategy for addressing AI risks is to unite nations in adopting shared principles and commitments for AI governance.

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