Artificial Intelligence: Laboratories
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, with reference to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology's press release entitled UK backs new AI labs to make technology cheaper, more reliable and easier to use, published on 23 June 2026, what assessment he has made of the long-term funding requirements for the two laboratories following the initial investment.
Answered by Kanishka Narayan
The UK AI Research Labs are funded and delivered through UKRI, and will be strategically managed in line with standard M&E processes for a grant of its kind. Additionally, the programme funding is ‘stage-gated’, where the initial research grant period covers only the first 18 months. Subsequent funding will be subject to independent assurance of the labs’ long-term funding, demonstration of an effective operating model, and early delivery impact.
Regarding the long-term funding requirements for the lab, there is no doubt that retaining UK leadership in this space will require continued investment. Future funding requirements and sources will depend on the outcomes of the research among other factors.
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