OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, has signed a major partnership with the UK government aimed at transforming how the country uses AI.
The agreement, signed by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, is aiming to lay the groundwork for new infrastructure, smarter public services and stronger national capabilities in frontier tech.
The deal will see the global giant expand its presence in the UK, with plans to grow its London office and invest in the wider ecosystem.
It will work with government departments to explore how AI can be used in areas like education, defence and public safety.
OpenAI’s models are already in use in Whitehall. The government’s in-house AI assistant, known as Humphrey, uses ChatGPT technology to cut admin time.
One tool, called Consult, speeds up how officials sort public feedback on policy. A task that normally takes weeks is now said to be done in minutes, helping civil servants focus on more pressing decisions.
The partnership will also look at building new data centres and research facilities, which ties into the UK’s AI Opportunities Action Plan that has been backed to the tune of £2bn.
OpenAI will look to deliver infrastructure that supports national goals and creates new jobs.
“AI will be fundamental in driving the change we need to see across the country – whether that’s in fixing the NHS, breaking down barriers to opportunity or driving economic growth,” said Kyle.
“That’s why we need to make sure Britain is front and centre when it comes to developing and deploying AI, so we can make sure it works for us.
“This can’t be achieved without companies like OpenAI, who are driving this revolution forward internationally.
“This partnership will see more of their work taking place in the UK, creating high-paid tech jobs, driving investment in infrastructure, and crucially giving our country agency over how this world-changing technology moves forward.”
Altman added: “AI is a core technology for nation building that will transform economies and deliver growth.
“Britain has a strong legacy of scientific leadership and its government was one of the first to recognise the potential of AI through its AI Opportunities Action Plan.
“Now, it’s time to deliver on the plan’s goals by turning ambition to action and delivering prosperity for all.”
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