Sam Altman, at the helm of one of the world’s leading artificial intelligence firms, has inked an agreement with the UK government to investigate the use of sophisticated AI models in various sectors, including the judiciary, safety, and education.

The CEO of OpenAI, with a valuation of $300 million (£220 billion), offers a comprehensive suite of ChatGPT language models. On Monday, he reached a memorandum understanding with the Secretary of State for Science and Technology, Peter Kyle.

This agreement closely follows a similar pact between the UK government and OpenAI’s competitor, Google, a prominent technology company from the U.S.

See the latest contracts. OpenAI and the government have committed to “collaborate in identifying avenues for the deployment of AI models throughout government,” aiming to “enhance civil servants’ efficiency” and “assist citizens in navigating public services more efficiently.”

They plan to co-develop AI solutions that address “the UK’s toughest challenges, including justice, defense, security, and educational technology,” fostering a partnership that “boosts public interaction with AI technology.”

Altman has previously asserted that AI laboratories could achieve a performance milestone referred to as artificial general intelligence this year, paralleling human-level proficiency across various tasks.

Nonetheless, public sentiment in Britain is split regarding the risks and benefits of swiftly advancing technologies. An IPSOS survey revealed that 31% of respondents felt excited about the potential, although they harbored some concerns. Meanwhile, 30% remained predominantly worried about the risks but were somewhat intrigued by the possibilities.

Kyle remarked, “AI is crucial for driving the transformation we need to see nationwide. This involves revitalizing the NHS, eliminating barriers to opportunities, and stimulating economic growth.”

He emphasized that none of this progress could be attained without collaboration with a company like OpenAI, underscoring that the partnership would “equip the UK with influence over the evolution of this groundbreaking technology.”

Altman stated: “The UK has a rich legacy of scientific innovation, and its government was among the pioneers in recognizing the potential of AI through its AI Opportunity Action Plan. It’s time to actualize the plan’s objectives by transforming ambition into action and fostering prosperity for all.”

OpenAI plans to broaden its operations in the UK beyond its current workforce of over 100 employees.

In addition, as part of an agreement with Google disclosed earlier this month, the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Technology announced that Google DeepMind, the AI division led by Nobel laureate Demis Hassabis, will “collaborate with government tech experts to facilitate the adoption and dissemination of emerging technologies,” thus promoting advances in scientific research.

OpenAI already provides technology that powers AI chatbots, enabling small businesses to more easily obtain guidance and support from government websites. This technology is utilized in tools like the Whitehall AI assistant, designed to expedite the processes for civil servants.