House of Commons · Westminster Hall
08 July 2025 · 9 other contributors · 10,117 words
Opened by Damian Hinds Con East Hampshire
Responding minister: Stephen Morgan
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Damian Hinds raised concerns about generative artificial intelligence: schools in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The Department for Education is urged to provide further guidance and updates on the use of AI, particularly regarding teacher workload reduction and supporting learning for students with special educational needs.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Teachers are using generative AI to create resources, plan lessons and communicate with parents. However, only 6% of teachers permit pupils to use AI for their work, while surveys suggest that between one in three and three in four children may be using it to some degree.
Questions whether statutory regulations are necessary to limit bias or misinformation when using generative AI in schools. Expressed concern that over-reliance on AI might limit critical thinking skills and open-mindedness among students.
Secured the debate and emphasized the need for a nuanced approach to AI in education.
Expressed concerns about AI generating false sources for incorrect claims in higher education and questioned whether AI could be used to mark AI-generated material.
Discussed the ethical implications of AI in education, emphasizing the need to balance potential benefits with risks such as eroding critical thinking skills and exacerbating screen time issues among vulnerable students. Emphasized the risks of AI on critical thinking, attention spans, and cognitive development. Contributed insightful comments on the opportunities and challenges of AI in education, reminding members of the Education Committee's work on screen time.
Discussed the importance of AI in education while emphasizing the need for safeguards and protections. Mentioned a study by Ulster University where teachers used Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini, highlighting time management benefits but also stressing the necessity for thorough training. Discussed the importance of teaching students about the limitations and ethical use of technology.
Acknowledged the role of Ofqual as a regulator and supported the curriculum and assessment review.
Concerned about the dangers of using generative AI in classrooms, especially regarding harmful content and children's privacy. Cited NSPCC report on data protection issues. Provided an intervention highlighting issues related to AI use in exams and assessments.
Addressed fears surrounding AI in education and emphasized the importance of ensuring that these technologies are used ethically and equitably to enhance educators' roles rather than replace them. Contributed to the debate with insights on the opportunities and risks associated with AI in education.
Called for a public health approach to AI in schools and introduced concerns about data privacy, academic integrity, and the need for ethical guidelines. Highlighted research showing potential negative impacts on cognitive skills and student development. Discussed a study by MIT showing a decline in critical thinking due to excessive screen time.
Government Response
Stephen MorganThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education
Acknowledged the debate’s importance and praised Members' constructive contributions. He highlighted the Government’s initiatives like funding AI lesson planning tools, launching content store pilots, and investing in AI tool development competitions to support edtech innovations. The Minister also mentioned an upcoming international summit on generative AI in education and efforts to manage risks proactively.