AI in Parliament: How MPs Are Exploring Chatbot Technology.

Parliaments worldwide are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence for various functions, ranging from monitoring Members of Parliament's attendance in the chamber to composing legal documents. The United Kingdom may soon adopt similar practices.

The AI assistant has been recognized for its capability to attend meetings on behalf of users, and it may soon be utilized to assist Members of Parliament (MPs) in managing their increasing workloads.

The digital services department of Parliament (PDS) is currently conducting a cost-benefit analysis of Microsoft's CoPilot Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool, which possesses the ability to draft emails and take notes during calls, even in the user's absence.

This tool offers several features akin to ChatGPT, such as the ability to create PowerPoint presentations and generate Word documents nearly from scratch.

Labour MP Nick Smith, who serves on the House of Commons Commission, has disclosed that PDS is "actively exploring" the potential of this tool, along with other AI solutions, to support MPs and their staff in handling routine administrative tasks and fulfilling their constituency responsibilities.

It remains somewhat ambiguous what this may involve.

'Two and a half days to sift through emails'

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However, for Labour MP Chi Onwurah, a former shadow science minister with expertise in technology, the focus is on enhancing productivity rather than idleness.

She has stated that a member of her team currently dedicates "two and a half days of the week" to sifting through the growing amounts of hate mail, spam, and lobby invitations in her inbox, which detracts from "more exciting and interesting work" that she should be undertaking.

"This is not an effective use of her time; artificial intelligence could assist with this task," she remarked.

The MP from Newcastle also stated that shortly after removing what she characterized as a "horrible email," a situation that has become increasingly common among her colleagues, who have reported a rise in abusive correspondence.

Ms. Onwurah has expressed her worries regarding constituency emails potentially "getting lost" during a period of heightened demand for assistance, particularly in sectors such as housing and benefits.

However, she emphasized that the use of AI should be limited to administrative functions, as there are concerns that this technology might lead to complacency among individuals.

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She referenced the recent historic vote on assisted dying, noting that she dedicated considerable time to crafting her statement on the matter, while suggesting that AI could have been beneficial in managing the influx of emails related to it.

"AI could assist with administrative tasks that do not necessitate my personal input, thereby allowing me more time to engage in debates and interact with constituents," she remarked.

"It is crucial for Parliament to demonstrate our capability to meet these challenges, just as we expect businesses and constituents to enhance their productivity."

This occurs within the context of a broader global discussion regarding artificial intelligence, which has the potential to perform critical functions such as disease detection, yet also poses challenges related to job displacement and the spread of misinformation.

Mr. Smith disclosed that the Public Digital Service (PDS) is conducting a cost-benefit analysis of Microsoft's CoPilot in response to a written inquiry from Ms. Onwurah, noting that various government departments are currently piloting the technology.

Additionally, an AI Working Group has been established, comprising members from both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, to explore further applications of AI. Furthermore, a Digital Innovation Lab has been created to experiment with AI implementations within a parliamentary framework, he stated.

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One initiative currently in development is a "Redbox tool," designed to summarize documents and briefings from Hansard, which records parliamentary discussions.

Artificial intelligence may also assist Members of Parliament in managing their emails and appointments, as well as supporting their various duties and responsibilities, according to a source from the House of Commons.

Conversations are currently taking place with other nations that are employing this technology in a similar manner.

The UK is engaging in discussions with other parliamentary bodies utilizing AI.

Numerous parliaments globally have already integrated AI to enhance their operational efficiency.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union highlights more than 40 instances where artificial intelligence is being implemented, such as Bahrain employing AI to monitor and evaluate the attendance of its members in the legislative chamber, and Chile utilizing an AI argument assistant to formulate both supportive and opposing viewpoints on proposed legislation.

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In Italy and Brazil, AI is being leveraged to assist in the drafting and analysis of legal documents, while various other nations have developed chatbots to address inquiries regarding parliamentary procedures.

A representative from parliament stated: "In our commitment to optimizing parliamentary operations through innovative methods and emerging technologies, while also addressing potential risks, we are actively investigating suitable applications of AI.

"We have established a comprehensive AI policy framework to ensure the responsible and secure utilization of AI within parliament. Additionally, we are preparing guidance and educational resources on the safe application of AI concerning parliamentary responsibilities for both members and their staff. The House Administration will collaborate with members to evaluate the feasibility of AI for the identified opportunities."

The integration of AI in parliamentary functions offers significant potential for increasing efficiency and reducing administrative burdens. By automating tasks such as managing emails, drafting documents, and summarizing legislative materials, AI allows MPs to focus on more impactful work, such as policy discussions and constituent engagement.

Countries like Bahrain, Chile, and Italy are already leveraging AI to enhance their parliamentary operations, and the UK is exploring similar initiatives. As AI improves productivity, it can help parliamentarians meet the growing demands of their roles while maintaining high standards of governance and responsiveness to public needs.