UK MPs and Lords push for AI legislation to protect human rights

UK lawmakers have warned that the nation’s existing legal framework is ill‑suited to safeguard human‑rights protections against the growing threats posed by artificial intelligence. In statements to the House of Commons, members of the Science and Technology Committee and the Home Affairs Select Committee highlighted gaps in current legislation that leave citizens vulnerable to algorithmic bias, intrusive surveillance and the manipulation of information.

The politicians called for a comprehensive review of data‑protection, equality and privacy statutes, urging the government to draft new regulations that address AI‑specific risks. They referenced a recent parliamentary report recommending the establishment of an independent oversight body and the introduction of enforceable standards for transparency and accountability in AI systems. The government has signalled that it will consider these recommendations as part of its broader AI strategy, with a formal debate scheduled for the autumn session.