The Institute for Public Policy Research reports that artificial intelligence may have a negative impact on the UK job market. The study says that a "job apocalypse" is imminent and may consume eight million jobs across the United Kingdom, unless rapid government intervention occurs.
The report from IPPR points to two key stages of generative AI.
The first stage threatens nearly 11 percent of all jobs for UK workers. These are mostly cognitive tasks like database management and organizational tasks such as scheduling.
The report says the second stage will threaten 59 percent of other jobs, affecting high-earning jobs and non-traditional work like creating databases.
"We could see jobs such as copywriters, graphic designers, and personal assistants roles being heavily affected by AI. The question is how we can steer technological change in a way that allows for novel job opportunities, increased productivity, and economic benefits for all," Senior Research Fellow at IPPR Bhargav Srinivasa Desikan said.
"We are at a sliding doors moment, and policymakers urgently need to develop a strategy to make sure our labor market adapts to the 21st century, without leaving millions behind. It is crucial that all workers benefit from these technological advancements, and not just the big tech corporations.
Demographics Most Affected
There were three situations modeled by the IPPR to predict the impact of the second stage of AI:
- Worst case: 7.9 million jobs lost with no GDP gains
- Central case: 4.4 million jobs lost but 6.3 percent GDP growth.
- Best case: No jobs lost and 13 percent GDP boost from augmenting at-risk jobs.
Carsten Jung, Senior Economist at IPPR, said: "History shows that technological transition can be a boon if well managed, or can end in disruption if left to unfold without controls. Indeed, some occupations could be hard hit by generative AI, starting with back office jobs.""But technology isn't destiny and a jobs apocalypse is not inevitable - government, employers, and unions have the opportunity to make crucial design decisions now
Entry-level positions, predominantly occupied by these groups, are most at risk as AI becomes better at roles that impact secretarial and customer service positions.
