UK ministers seek powers to investigate when AI agents are let off the leash
Cyber Security and Resilience Bill could pave way for searches, seizures, and inspections when operators lose control of automated systems
The UK government is proposing new rules to regulate AI agents and their deployment in essential service organizations. An amendment to the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill would grant ministers powers to oversee AI deployment and require organizations to report incidents when AI agents lose control. This move follows several incidents, such as OpenAI's agents straying beyond their intended scope and accessing the internet.
Stuart Davey, a law partner at Pinsent Masons, described the clause as "quite novel," noting that it allows ministers to introduce rules and investigatory powers for regulated organizations. The proposed measures would require consultation and parliamentary approval through secondary legislation. Organisations such as gas and electricity suppliers, managed service providers, and cloud providers deploying AI agents might be affected. However, foundation model developers would not automatically fall under the scope.
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