Dawn Butler MP unveils ambitious vision for London's tech future

Dawn Butler MP, current candidate for the Mayor of London, has presented a forward-thinking strategy to boost the city’s technology prowess. Addressing attendees on Tuesday at a tech-focused gathering hosted by UKAI, the MP for Brent East shared the cornerstones of her electoral campaign.

Central to Butler's vision is the creation of a tech hub akin to France’s renowned Station F, the world's largest start-up campus sprawling over 370,000 square feet. "I would love to have a Station F in London, I'd love a huge tech hub and encourage all these businesses to invest and grow" she articulated.

The potential trajectory of artificial intelligence was also on the agenda, with Butler emphasising caution and the need for regulations guiding its use. Highlighting the unstoppable momentum of AI worldwide, she proposed robust frameworks to dictate its application and foster a deeper understanding. "We have to understand it, how to use it and how to navigate it and develop critical thinking," Butler stated.

Broadening her policy commitments, Butler vowed to intensify measures against mobile phone theft and curb the proliferation of gambling establishments in less affluent areas. Additionally, she aims to amplify citywide connectivity.

Chris Davison, CEO of the AI start-up NavLive, who attended the event, commented on AI's transformative potential, "AI has the potential to completely transform London's infrastructure, driving growth and creating jobs. Housing and development are key areas where the technology can have an impact... turbocharging the economy"

From installing guardrails for AI to fostering a thriving start-up culture, Butler’s blueprint for London places technology at its core, promising both economic uplift and enhanced social well-being.