Public Skepticism Over AI Poses Challenge to UK’s Superpower Ambitions, Says Tony Blair Institute

Published: 22 September ‘2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

A recent survey commissioned by the Tony Blair Institute (TBI) has revealed that a significant portion of the British public views artificial intelligence (AI) as more of an economic threat than an opportunity, raising concerns over the United Kingdom’s ambitions to become a global leader in the technology. According to the poll, 38 percent of respondents perceive AI as a risk to the economy, nearly double the 20 percent who consider it an opportunity. The findings underscore a widespread lack of public trust in the technology, which experts warn could hinder its adoption and the country’s potential to harness its benefits.

Jakob Mökander, TBI’s director of science and technology policy, emphasised that the UK’s path to becoming an AI superpower relies heavily on establishing itself as a world-leading adopter of the technology. While Britain is unlikely to outpace the United States and China in AI development, it could still claim leadership through widespread adoption—provided the government succeeds in building broad public confidence. “You can be an AI superpower in two ways – either through development or adoption,” Mökander explained. “The UK will not lead in development, but it can lead in adoption. This, however, depends on ensuring that citizens trust the technology.”

The UK government has positioned AI at the core of its economic strategy, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer declaring earlier this year that Britain will emerge as one of the world’s great AI superpowers. Yet the TBI survey highlights the challenge ahead, as public concerns remain high, particularly around AI’s impact on jobs. The institute, along with international organisations such as the International Monetary Fund and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, has warned that AI could significantly reshape the labour market. Estimates suggest that between one and three million private-sector roles could be displaced in the coming years, although new jobs created by AI may offset some losses.

Despite these projections, recruitment agencies report that sectors expected to be heavily impacted, including graduate recruitment, have not yet experienced substantial disruption. Nonetheless, the survey indicated a stark contrast in perception between those who have used AI and those who have not. Over half of non-users viewed AI as a threat, while among regular users, only about a quarter shared this concern, suggesting that familiarity with the technology may reduce apprehension.

Mökander stressed the importance of fostering trust through responsible regulation and public education. Drawing parallels with vaccination campaigns, he argued that, just as vaccines are made safe through rigorous regulation and promoted to build public confidence, AI requires clear rules and effective communication to illustrate its benefits. He highlighted practical examples where AI could positively impact everyday life, such as reducing NHS waiting times or increasing efficiency in the workplace, allowing employees more time at home with their families.

The TBI report, published on Monday, outlined five recommendations aimed at enhancing public trust in AI: encouraging greater public engagement with AI, highlighting beneficial applications, quantifying AI’s positive impact in relatable ways, implementing responsible regulatory frameworks, and launching initiatives to build AI skills across the workforce. The institute receives significant funding from tech entrepreneur Larry Ellison, which supports its research and advocacy initiatives.

A spokesperson for the UK government acknowledged the importance of public trust in AI adoption and reaffirmed ongoing efforts to equip workers with the necessary skills. “About 10 million workers are expected to use AI in their day-to-day roles by 2035, so it is vital that our workforce has both the skills and confidence to harness this technology effectively,” the spokesperson said, highlighting initiatives aimed at increasing AI literacy and adoption.

As the UK seeks to navigate a path toward AI leadership, experts agree that public perception will be a decisive factor. Without building confidence and demonstrating tangible benefits, the government risks slowing the adoption of AI, potentially undermining economic ambitions. The TBI survey serves as a timely reminder that technology policy is not solely about innovation and investment, but also about ensuring that citizens are informed, reassured, and able to embrace the transformative potential of AI in a responsible and inclusive manner.