Experts are keeping an eye on the possible risks created by tools whose capabilities could match, or even well exceed, those of their human creators, according to government representative

The possible development of artificial superintelligence “must be taken seriously” by government, a minister has said.

As current AI technology becomes more prevalent and more sophisticated, “there is considerable debate and uncertainty around artificial general intelligence (AGI) and artificial superintelligence (ASI)”, according to AI and online safety minister Kanishka Naryan.

AGI typically refers to artificial intelligence that demonstrates cognitive and intellectual abilities on a par with humans, while ASI describes a point at which AI tools can comfortably exceed human performance in almost any discipline – with the possibility of ongoing and indefinite improvement beyond this point.

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“The possibility of their development must be taken seriously,” said Naryan. “The increasing capabilities of AI may exacerbate existing risks and present new risks, for which the UK need to be prepared.”

The minister suggested that government’s AI Security Institute (AISI), based in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, has a key watching brief in responding to the potential dangers of new technology.

“The role of AISI is to build an evidence base on these risks, so the government is equipped to understand them,” he said. “AISI focuses on emerging AI risks with serious security implications, including the potential for AI to help users develop chemical and biological weapons, and the potential for loss of control presented by autonomous systems. The government remains committed to taking further steps, where required, to ensure that the UK is prepared for the changes that AI will bring.”

Naryan was answering a written parliamentary question from fellow Labour MP Kevin Bonavia.