In his annual Mansion House speech, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has launched a London taskforce dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of work. Recognizing the urgency to prevent widespread unemployment in London, Khan also announced free AI training for Londoners to equip them for the changing job landscape.
Khan emphasized the need for immediate action to mitigate the potentially damaging effects of AI on the capital. He called for a collaborative approach to steer the AI revolution towards positive outcomes that benefit society rather than harm it.
A survey conducted by City Hall revealed that more than half of London workers anticipate AI impacting their jobs within the next 12 months. Khan expressed his concerns, stating, “It feels as though the ground beneath our feet is shifting. Artificial intelligence is beginning to cause tectonic movements in our markets, industries, and workplaces.”
While acknowledging the transformative potential of AI in public services and productivity enhancement, Khan cautioned against the risks of unchecked AI deployment leading to mass unemployment, increased inequality, and wealth concentration. He urged proactive decision-making to harness AI’s potential for positive transformation and creation.
LinkedIn’s Work change report predicts that by 2030, 70% of job skills will undergo changes, with AI playing a significant role as a catalyst. The report highlighted a notable increase in the acquisition of new skills by LinkedIn members, including technical and human-centric skills such as communication and leadership.
According to the report, over half of CEOs anticipate a 10% performance boost in their organizations through the adoption of generative AI technology. Khan emphasized the seismic impact of AI on London’s job market, particularly in key sectors like creative and financial industries.
The newly established taskforce aims to analyze the implications of AI on London’s workforce, identify the requisite skills for future roles, and ensure London’s competitiveness in the global job market. Khan underscored the role of political leaders in safeguarding individuals from the perils of new technologies and emphasized the importance of learning from past oversights in regulating the digital revolution.
Khan announced the launch of a free AI skills course for all Londoners interested in acquiring AI skills, emphasizing inclusivity in benefiting from technology advancements. “It’s up to us to ensure that AI paves the way for a brighter future that we all aspire to see,” Khan stated.
