UK implements AI to analyze public opinion on regulation of Botox, fillers

The UK government is breaking new ground by using artificial intelligence to streamline public consultation analysis, potentially saving millions while maintaining high-quality results. A landmark trial utilizing an AI tool called “Consult” to analyze responses about cosmetic procedures like Botox and fillers has demonstrated that machines can effectively match human performance in processing public feedback, signaling a significant shift in how governments might handle citizen input in the digital age.

The big picture: A Scottish government consultation on regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures has become the UK’s first to employ artificial intelligence for analyzing public responses, with officials reporting the AI produced results “nearly identical” to human analysis.

Key details: The AI system, named “Consult,” successfully processed 2,000 public submissions about Botox and lip fillers regulation.

• The tool was able to identify themes among responses, count and catalogue answers, and work alongside human experts who verified its output.
• Consult is part of a planned suite of government AI tools collectively dubbed “Humphrey.”

Important stats: Government officials estimate the AI consultation tool could save approximately £20 million through increased efficiency.

• The broader initiative aims to achieve £45 billion in savings through wider public sector AI adoption.

What they’re saying: Technology Secretary Peter Kyle confirmed the trial’s success means Consult will be deployed “across government very soon.”

Behind the numbers: The technology aims to free civil servants from time-consuming manual tasks associated with processing public consultations, allowing them to focus on higher-value work.

Counterpoints: Officials emphasized that AI implementation will always include “humans in the loop” checking the machine’s work to address common concerns about AI reliability.

• The system has reduced risk of AI “hallucination” and might potentially reduce human bias in consultation analysis.
• Current limitations include the tool only functioning in English.