London Mayor Sadiq Khan has cautioned that the rapid spread of artificial intelligence could push the UK capital into “an era of mass unemployment” if decisive steps are not taken.
In remarks set to be delivered in a speech later on Thursday, the Labour mayor will outline both the risks and opportunities linked to AI, warning that London’s workforce is particularly exposed due to the city’s heavy concentration of finance, professional services and creative industries.
According to excerpts shared with the media, Khan is expected to say that London stands “at the sharpest edge of change,” making it more vulnerable to disruption than many other regions. He will argue that while AI holds the promise of major productivity gains, its unchecked use could significantly displace workers.
Alongside the speech, Khan will unveil a review examining how AI is likely to reshape London’s jobs market, as well as a major initiative offering free AI training to millions of residents. He will stress that the benefits of the technology can only be realised if governments move quickly and responsibly.
Without timely intervention, Khan will warn, AI risks becoming “a weapon of mass destruction of jobs.”
The wider debate over AI’s impact on employment remains unresolved. The office of Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged on Thursday that artificial intelligence is set to transform the world of work, adding that while some roles will be more affected than others, new jobs and opportunities are also expected to emerge.