Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Joint committee on Human Rights

15 October 2026 · 2 other contributors · 2,655 words

Opened by Alex Sobel Labour (Co-op) Leeds Central and Headingley

Responding minister: Not recorded

Science & TechnologyWomen & EqualitiesStandards & Ethics

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Alex Sobel raised concerns about joint committee on human rights in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.

Key points

  • Concerns about inadequate regulation of AI in the UK were raised, citing lack of transparency and accountability.
  • Report highlighted risks of discrimination by automated decision-making systems based on protected characteristics.
  • Calls were made for a robust legal framework and an independent oversight body for AI development and deployment.

Key requests to Government

I urge the government to prioritise the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI. This includes the creation of an independent body to oversee AI development and deployment, as well as the introduction of mandatory impact assessments for high-risk AI systems.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Alex Sobel Labour (Co-op) Leeds Central and Headingley

I am concerned about the inadequate regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the UK. The report highlights the lack of transparency and accountability in AI systems, which can lead to significant human rights infringements. For example, automated decision-making systems may discriminate against individuals based on protected characteristics such as race, sex, or disability. Furthermore, the absence of a robust legal framework to address the misuse of AI poses risks to privacy and data protection. The report cites instances where individuals were unfairly targeted by predictive policing algorithms, resulting in wrongful arrests and convictions.

Other contributors (2)
  • Lilian Greenwood Lab Birmingham Erdington

    Lilian Greenwood emphasised the need for public engagement in AI regulation. She noted that the public should have a say in how AI is developed and used, particularly in areas like healthcare and education. She questioned the government on its strategy for involving the public in the regulatory process.

  • Tania Mathias Con Brecon and Radnorshire

    Tania Mathias highlighted the importance of balancing innovation and regulation. She mentioned that the UK must not fall behind other nations in the development and deployment of AI, but must also ensure that the technology is used responsibly and ethically. She asked the government to outline its plans for international cooperation in AI governance.

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