Peter Kyle, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology in the United Kingdom (UK), has been using ChatGPT to seek advice on policy matters, including the slow adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) among British businesses, according to a recent report by New Scientist magazine.

The revelation comes after New Scientist obtained records of Kyle's chatbot interactions under the Freedom of Information Act (FOI)—a move believed to be the first of its kind globally.

The disclosures show that Kyle asked ChatGPT why small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the UK have been hesitant to integrate AI. In response, the chatbot provided a ten-point list outlining key obstacles, including limited awareness, regulatory and ethical concerns, and insufficient government support. ChatGPT noted that while the UK government has launched initiatives to promote AI adoption, many SMBs remain unaware of these programmes or struggle to navigate them. It also pointed to concerns over compliance with data protection laws, such as GDPR, as a significant barrier, as per the report.

In addition to policy discussions, Kyle used ChatGPT to seek media engagement recommendations, asking which podcasts would be most effective for reaching a wide audience in his ministerial role. The chatbot suggested programmes such as 'The Infinite Monkey Cage' and 'The Naked Scientists', based on listener numbers. 

Kyle also queried the AI tool for definitions of scientific and technological concepts, including antimatter, quantum, and digital inclusion. Experts consulted by New Scientist found the chatbot's explanations on quantum science to be unexpectedly accurate and well-articulated.

Responding to the findings, a spokesperson for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) confirmed that Kyle, as the minister responsible for AI, makes use of the technology but does not rely on it as a substitute for official advice from government experts. "The Government is using AI as a labour-saving tool – supported by clear guidance on how to quickly and safely make use of the technology," the spokesperson told New Scientist.

Initially, DSIT refused to disclose the data to New Scientist magazine, arguing that Kyle's ChatGPT history contained prompts made in both a personal and official capacity. However, after a refined request, records of official interactions were made public.