Unions mock Trump's AI claims and demand regulation at TUC Congress

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UNIONS called for new AI laws that make worker consultation mandatory whenever the tech is rolled out in a series of motions at TUC Congress today.

Artists Union England delegate Loraine Monk mocked US Donald Trump’s claims on his Truth Social platform that the “only control or ‘guardrails’ that AI needs is a STRONG AND SMART (High IQ!) PRESIDENT, and the U.S.A. has that, in spades!”

She told delegates in Brighton: “Well that’s reassuring. We are demanding more than his little grey cells.

“The push for huge profits will inevitably lead to collapse… the bubble of speculation will burst but what will be left?”

The government’s designation of data centres as “national critical infrastructure” makes local opposition to their rollout almost impossible despite this being funded by US tech giants, she added.

“Vast buildings where few people will work and generate unbelievable profits for the few.”

National Education Union delegate Paula Burgin warned pupils were losing critical thinking skills due to being exposed to harmful and addictive social media algorithms.

“At a time when children are spending more of their lives online, there’s never been a greater need for human connection, regulation and workers’ voices,” she said.

TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: “With the right conditions on energy, on water, on jobs, union membership and local impact, data centres could help meet the motion’s goal to develop AI that’s open, transparent and safe.”

Labour will “heed the warnings” of artificial intelligence experts who have highlighted the risks the technology could pose, First Secretary Louise Haigh told Congress.

Speaking on behalf of PM Andy Burnham following the death of his father, she confirmed Britain’s position was in marked contrast to Mr Trump, who has dismissed warnings about the risks to humanity posed by AI, even when they have come from industry insiders.

Ms Haigh, the de facto deputy prime minister, acknowledged AI has the potential to transform public services, increase business growth and scientific progress.

But she said that the government is prepared to work internationally to address the risks from the technology.

She added that ministers must “heed the warnings of those who are at the forefront of developing this technology” and “be ready to work with international partners” to ensure public safety and national security.

Responding to Ms Haigh’s comments, Equity general secretary Paul W Fleming said: “If ministers want AI to serve the public good, they must put working people’s rights at the centre of regulation. Everyone stands to benefit from a personality rights framework. 

“It’s important to stop deepfakes, it’s important to give people rights and dignity over content that’s created and to allow our members to protect themselves against the growing storm of AI.

“We hope that before the end of the year there will be a government consultation on personality rights to make them a reality sooner rather than later.”