John Healey pledges to use budget to harness AI for Britain’s security

John Healey, the new Chancellor, announced that the upcoming budget will allocate hundreds of millions of pounds to develop a "distinctively British" approach to artificial intelligence. The aim is to use AI to strengthen national security, protect against cyber‑risks, and support economic growth.

Key points:

• Investment in the AI Security Institute and other critical institutions.
• £10 million a year to study how AI will reshape jobs and industry.
• Up to £300 million for a new AI Biosecurity Lab.
• New AI chip design capability in Edinburgh and an AI Centre of Excellence in Manchester.
• Funding to support the use of AI for good, ensuring workers are not left behind.

The chancellor said the investment would help Britain stay ahead of global technology arms races while addressing concerns about cyber‑attacks, job disruption and dependence on foreign AI firms.

The budget also includes measures to give households and businesses "breathing space" amid rising energy costs and global economic uncertainty.

Verification: The announcement was made during the Chancellor’s first budget speech on Wednesday, as reported by The Guardian.