JON PEARCE'S WEEKLY COLUMN: AI is becoming an everyday tool

The future is here and it has written this column (partly).    

Artificial intelligence isn’t some distant, sci-fi concept—it’s already here, transforming the way we work, live, and even communicate. In fact, I used AI to help draft the first version of this very column! Whilst it was far from the finished article, it certainly provided a helpful starting point, and shows how AI is already becoming an everyday tool.  

That’s why I’m so excited to have recently been appointed to Parliament’s Science, Innovation, and Technology Select Committee. This committee plays a vital role in overseeing government policy and investment in areas such as scientific research, digital infrastructure, and emerging technologies.  

Last week the Government announced its AI Opportunities Action Plan, which aims to increase AI adoption by businesses, invest in research, and create jobs while improving public understanding of AI’s potential.  

It also recognises the role of AI in enhancing public services. For example, AI is already transforming healthcare by helping doctors make faster, more accurate diagnoses, personalising treatments, and improving the management of chronic conditions. AI-powered tools can analyse medical scans far quicker than a human, helping to detect conditions like cancer earlier. This has the potential to reduce waiting times and deliver better outcomes for patients.  

One of the first inquiries the Committee is conducting is how science and technology can drive regional growth, and High Peak provides a fantastic example of how our towns and rural areas can support innovation.  

High Peak is already home to so many innovative businesses and employers in the science and technology sectors from Plater Group in Glossop that I recently visited to the HSE Science and Research Centre in Buxton.    

Businesses here are thriving despite challenges, but they need the right support to grow further. Whether it’s investment in infrastructure, access to research and development funding, or skilled workers, I’ll be pushing for policies that support High Peak’s businesses. 

 One area I’m particularly focused on is improving broadband coverage. Too many businesses and residents in High Peak still suffer from slow or unreliable internet connections. Poor broadband holds back productivity and limits the ability of businesses to compete in an increasingly digital economy. As part of the Committee, I will fight to secure better investment in broadband infrastructure so places like High Peak have the fast, reliable connections they need to thrive. 

 The future is here and by representing High Peak on this Committee, I’ll work to ensure our communities and businesses are best placed to seize the immense opportunities it offers.