THE DAILY EDITION · 13 OCTOBER 2026
UK backs pro-innovation AI regulation with OpenAI and Anthropic backing
Why this story?
OpenAI and Anthropic backed the UK's pro-innovation AI approach, with government funding for AI innovation, regulation, and cross-sector risk assessment.
Britain’s government described its approach to regulating artificial intelligence as pragmatic and sector-focused, designed to balance safety with innovation. OpenAI and Anthropic were among the frontier firms that endorsed the approach, alongside Britain’s growing AI startup scene and leading researchers. The response also notes plans to back more than £100 million in support for AI innovation and regulation.
The white paper underpinning the response outlines five principles for regulators to follow and calls for a central cross-government function to coordinate risk assessment and monitoring of AI risks across sectors.
London hosts a large cluster of frontier AI activity, with OpenAI and Anthropic among the tenants alongside Google DeepMind, Microsoft and Meta AI, while the government seeks to accelerate talent development and attract top researchers to the UK.
During a January 2025 speech, the prime minister noted OpenAI, Anthropic and Scale chose London as their international office and said, ‘We will test and understand AI before we regulate it’. The speech also pledged to back recommendations to make Britain the best place to start and scale an AI business.
Officials said the AI Opportunities Action Plan will help speed data-centre development, boost skills, and connect public services with private-sector capabilities.