The eyes have it: Reform politician’s ‘smart glasses’ prompt calls for ban in Westminster
Jason O’Connell’s suspected use of the specs to aid his speech in the Senedd reignites debate over the AI-enabled devices It was a flowing speech packed full of precise statistics – but Jason O’Connell, a Reform UK Senedd member, was not quite the gifted orator he had first appeared. The periodic flashing in his spectacles seemed to give the game away as he spoke for five minutes in the Senedd…
The use of smart glasses by a Reform UK member of the Senedd has reignited a debate over the employment of AI-enabled devices in Westminster. Jason O’Connell, known for his precise speech filled with statistics, was suspected of using the glasses to aid his delivery. The flashing lights in his spectacles appeared to reveal the nature of his aid.
His speech highlighted the potential for misuse of smart glasses, including the recorded speech and potential breach of privacy. Following the incident, members of the Senedd called for explicit guidance on the use of smart glasses, with the House of Commons also receiving calls to ban such devices. The Liberal Democrats urged Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle to take action, warning that as the use of smart glasses increases, there may be more instances of their use in 2027.
The technology raises concerns about the quality of MPs' speeches being influenced by AI rather than their own expertise. Privacy risks are also significant, as smart glasses can discreetly record video and take photos, potentially breaching the existing rules in the parliamentary estate. The UK parliament is reviewing its policy on the use of camera-equipped smart glasses and other wearable technology on its estate, expressing the need for additional guidance that balances security, privacy, operational needs, and accessibility considerations.
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