The UK government has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with AI company Anthropic to assess the use of AI in improving public access to government services and information. The agreement, signed with the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), forms part of the UK’s broader approach to integrating AI into public administration while ensuring security and ethical considerations are addressed.
The partnership will focus on examining how AI can enhance interactions between citizens and government services. AI tools like Anthropic’s Claude will be explored for their potential to improve access to government resources, automate administrative tasks, and enhance efficiency in public services. The government aims to identify best practices for responsible AI deployment, prioritising security, privacy, and trust.
AI’s role in government operations
Anthropic’s AI technology is already in use by other public institutions, including the European Parliament, where it assists with document retrieval and analysis. The UK government is seeking to explore similar applications that could streamline administrative processes and make public information more accessible.
The UK has outlined a long-term strategy to become a global leader in AI, aiming to leverage AI to modernise public services and increase productivity. The initiative aligns with broader government plans to integrate AI into multiple sectors while fostering economic growth and innovation. To support this goal, the AI Security Institute will collaborate with Anthropic and DSIT to study AI’s capabilities and risks. Research efforts will focus on addressing security concerns, ensuring AI applications align with ethical standards, and maintaining public trust in AI-driven systems. “The work of the AI Security Institute won’t change, but this renewed focus will ensure our citizens – and those of our allies – are protected from those who would look to use AI against our institutions, democratic values, and way of life,” said Science, Innovation, and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle.
The newly established Sovereign AI unit is overseeing the government’s engagement with AI firms. The government is expected to pursue additional collaborations with AI companies to further develop AI-driven solutions across various sectors.
Beyond public service improvements, the MoU outlines potential areas of ongoing cooperation, including AI-driven scientific research, strengthening AI infrastructure, and supporting technology startups and academic institutions. The agreement will also examine AI’s role in securing supply chains and its impact on the UK’s digital economy. Anthropic’s Economic Index, which provides data on real-world AI adoption, will be utilised to track AI’s integration into the economy.
The government has identified AI as a key factor in economic expansion and technological advancement. Efforts to integrate AI into public services form part of a wider strategy to enhance digital infrastructure and support emerging technologies.
Read more: UK councils tap AI to modernise public services amid push for £45bn savings
