20 Feb 2026·Department of Health and Social Care·Answered
AskedWhat steps he is taking to provide accessible scientific evidence to help ensure public confidence in food safety and environmental policy when new chemical additives are introduced.
ReplyAll food and feed additives permitted for use in the United Kingdom must undergo a comprehensive, evidence‑based safety assessment before approval. This process evaluates potential risks and ensures additives can only be used in specified food categories, at controlled levels, and with any necessary labelling requirements. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is responsible for assessing and authorising new additives and for reviewing changes to existing approvals. To support transparency and public confidence, the FSA publishes its scientific risk assessments and consults publicly on proposed authorisations so that stakeholders and consumers can provide their views before decisions are made.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what mechanisms are in place to coordinate cross-government preparedness for AI loss-of-control scenarios.
ReplyAI models have the potential to pose novel risks by behaving in unintended or unforeseen ways. The possibility that this behaviour could lead to loss of control over advanced AI systems is taken seriously by many experts.The AI Security Institute (AISI) is researching the development of AI capabilities that could contribute towards AI’s ability to evade human control, as well the propensity of models to engage in misaligned actions.Furthermore, through the Alignment Project – a funding consortium distributing up to £27m for research projects – AISI is supporting further foundational research into methods to develop AI systems that operate according to our goals, without unintended or harmful behaviours.The Government has been clear that we will legislate on AI where needed but we will do so on the basis of evidence where any serious gaps exist.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what (a) short, (b) medium (c) and long-term actions he is taking to help anticipate and mitigate the potential risks of AI loss-of-control.
ReplyAI models have the potential to pose novel risks by behaving in unintended or unforeseen ways. The possibility that this behaviour could lead to loss of control over advanced AI systems is taken seriously by many experts.The AI Security Institute (AISI) is researching the development of AI capabilities that could contribute towards AI’s ability to evade human control, as well the propensity of models to engage in misaligned actions.Furthermore, through the Alignment Project – a funding consortium distributing up to £27m for research projects – AISI is supporting further foundational research into methods to develop AI systems that operate according to our goals, without unintended or harmful behaviours.The Government has been clear that we will legislate on AI where needed but we will do so on the basis of evidence where any serious gaps exist.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, whether his Department has undertaken scenario planning exercises for AI loss-of-control events.
ReplyAI models have the potential to pose novel risks by behaving in unintended or unforeseen ways. The possibility that this behaviour could lead to loss of control over advanced AI systems is taken seriously by many experts.The AI Security Institute (AISI) is researching the development of AI capabilities that could contribute towards AI’s ability to evade human control, as well the propensity of models to engage in misaligned actions.Furthermore, through the Alignment Project – a funding consortium distributing up to £27m for research projects – AISI is supporting further foundational research into methods to develop AI systems that operate according to our goals, without unintended or harmful behaviours.The Government has been clear that we will legislate on AI where needed but we will do so on the basis of evidence where any serious gaps exist.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, whether he will make an assessment of the potential merits of legislative powers of direction over AI developers in the event of a loss-of-control incident.
ReplyAI models have the potential to pose novel risks by behaving in unintended or unforeseen ways. The possibility that this behaviour could lead to loss of control over advanced AI systems is taken seriously by many experts.The AI Security Institute (AISI) is researching the development of AI capabilities that could contribute towards AI’s ability to evade human control, as well the propensity of models to engage in misaligned actions.Furthermore, through the Alignment Project – a funding consortium distributing up to £27m for research projects – AISI is supporting further foundational research into methods to develop AI systems that operate according to our goals, without unintended or harmful behaviours.The Government has been clear that we will legislate on AI where needed but we will do so on the basis of evidence where any serious gaps exist.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what steps he is taking to help improve transparency on departmental responsibility for AI risk.
ReplyThis government is taking a long‑term, science‑led approach to understanding and preparing for emerging AI risks, including the possibility of very rapid progress with transformative impacts on society and national security.Through close collaboration with industry and international allies, the government has deepened its understanding of risks, improved AI model security, and built UK resilience against threats.The Government’s National Security Strategy sets out our intent to build the UK national security agenda for AI and other frontier technologies. This agenda will support the development of the UK's AI-enabled defence and security capabilities.This is complimented by the work of the AI Security Institute (AISI), which focuses on emerging AI risks with serious security implications, including cyber misuse, chemical or biological risks, and autonomous AI capabilities.The Government will remain vigilant and prepare for new AI risks, including rapid advancements that could affect society and national security.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what assessment she has made of the potential risks associated with advanced AI systems across government.
ReplyThis government is taking a long‑term, science‑led approach to understanding and preparing for emerging AI risks, including the possibility of very rapid progress with transformative impacts on society and national security.Through close collaboration with industry and international allies, the government has deepened its understanding of risks, improved AI model security, and built UK resilience against threats.The Government’s National Security Strategy sets out our intent to build the UK national security agenda for AI and other frontier technologies. This agenda will support the development of the UK's AI-enabled defence and security capabilities.This is complimented by the work of the AI Security Institute (AISI), which focuses on emerging AI risks with serious security implications, including cyber misuse, chemical or biological risks, and autonomous AI capabilities.The Government will remain vigilant and prepare for new AI risks, including rapid advancements that could affect society and national security.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what role the AI Safety Institute plays in national security preparedness for advanced AI systems.
ReplyThis government is taking a long‑term, science‑led approach to understanding and preparing for emerging AI risks, including the possibility of very rapid progress with transformative impacts on society and national security.Through close collaboration with industry and international allies, the government has deepened its understanding of risks, improved AI model security, and built UK resilience against threats.The Government’s National Security Strategy sets out our intent to build the UK national security agenda for AI and other frontier technologies. This agenda will support the development of the UK's AI-enabled defence and security capabilities.This is complimented by the work of the AI Security Institute (AISI), which focuses on emerging AI risks with serious security implications, including cyber misuse, chemical or biological risks, and autonomous AI capabilities.The Government will remain vigilant and prepare for new AI risks, including rapid advancements that could affect society and national security.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what emergency powers the Government holds to direct private AI developers during a national security incident involving advanced AI systems.
ReplyThis government is taking a long‑term, science‑led approach to understanding and preparing for emerging AI risks, including the possibility of very rapid progress with transformative impacts on society and national security.Through close collaboration with industry and international allies, the government has deepened its understanding of risks, improved AI model security, and built UK resilience against threats.The Government’s National Security Strategy sets out our intent to build the UK national security agenda for AI and other frontier technologies. This agenda will support the development of the UK's AI-enabled defence and security capabilities.This is complimented by the work of the AI Security Institute (AISI), which focuses on emerging AI risks with serious security implications, including cyber misuse, chemical or biological risks, and autonomous AI capabilities.The Government will remain vigilant and prepare for new AI risks, including rapid advancements that could affect society and national security.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what protocols are in place to help ensure rapid information-sharing with AI companies during a national AI emergency.
ReplyThis government is taking a long‑term, science‑led approach to understanding and preparing for emerging AI risks, including the possibility of very rapid progress with transformative impacts on society and national security.Through close collaboration with industry and international allies, the government has deepened its understanding of risks, improved AI model security, and built UK resilience against threats.The Government’s National Security Strategy sets out our intent to build the UK national security agenda for AI and other frontier technologies. This agenda will support the development of the UK's AI-enabled defence and security capabilities.This is complimented by the work of the AI Security Institute (AISI), which focuses on emerging AI risks with serious security implications, including cyber misuse, chemical or biological risks, and autonomous AI capabilities.The Government will remain vigilant and prepare for new AI risks, including rapid advancements that could affect society and national security.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, whether he plans to publish an AI Security Strategy.
ReplyThis government is taking a long‑term, science‑led approach to understanding and preparing for emerging AI risks, including the possibility of very rapid progress with transformative impacts on society and national security.Through close collaboration with industry and international allies, the government has deepened its understanding of risks, improved AI model security, and built UK resilience against threats.The Government’s National Security Strategy sets out our intent to build the UK national security agenda for AI and other frontier technologies. This agenda will support the development of the UK's AI-enabled defence and security capabilities.This is complimented by the work of the AI Security Institute (AISI), which focuses on emerging AI risks with serious security implications, including cyber misuse, chemical or biological risks, and autonomous AI capabilities.The Government will remain vigilant and prepare for new AI risks, including rapid advancements that could affect society and national security.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, how her Department defines AI loss of control; and whether that definition is shared across Departments.
ReplyAI models have the potential to pose novel risks by behaving in unintended or unforeseen ways. The possibility that this behaviour could lead to loss of control over advanced AI systems is taken seriously by many experts.The AI Security Institute (AISI) is researching the development of AI capabilities that could contribute towards AI’s ability to evade human control, as well the propensity of models to engage in misaligned actions.Furthermore, through the Alignment Project – a funding consortium distributing up to £27m for research projects – AISI is supporting further foundational research into methods to develop AI systems that operate according to our goals, without unintended or harmful behaviours.The Government has been clear that we will legislate on AI where needed but we will do so on the basis of evidence where any serious gaps exist.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what role the AI Security Institute plays in national security preparedness for advanced AI systems.
ReplyThis government is taking a long‑term, science‑led approach to understanding and preparing for emerging AI risks, including the possibility of very rapid progress with transformative impacts on society and national security.Through close collaboration with industry and international allies, the government has deepened its understanding of risks, improved AI model security, and built UK resilience against threats.The Government’s National Security Strategy sets out our intent to build the UK national security agenda for AI and other frontier technologies. This agenda will support the development of the UK's AI-enabled defence and security capabilities.This is complimented by the work of the AI Security Institute (AISI), which focuses on emerging AI risks with serious security implications, including cyber misuse, chemical or biological risks, and autonomous AI capabilities.The Government will remain vigilant and prepare for new AI risks, including rapid advancements that could affect society and national security.
20 Feb 2026·Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office·Answered
AskedCommonwealth and Development Affairs, when she is scheduled to next meet representatives from the Sikh Federation to discuss the detention of Jagtar Singh Johal.
ReplyI refer the Hon Member to the answer he received on 9 February in response to Question 108102.
20 Feb 2026·Home Office·Answered
AskedWhether she will publish the material her Department disclosed to the courts and the Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation on Palestine Action.
ReplyThe material relied upon by the Court in its decision making is referenced throughout the judgment which is publicly available. R (Ammori) v SSHD OPEN Judgment (final)The open material referred to during the proceedings can be requested from the court in accordance with the Civil Rules on Court documents. PART 5 – COURT DOCUMENTS – Civil Procedure Rules – Justice UK. Any material submitted in closed proceedings is protected by the Justice and Security Act 2013 and will not be disclosed for reasons of national security.The Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation has access to secret and sensitive national security information in order to carry out his role. He routinely publishes his findings in reports that are available on his website: https://terrorismlegislationreviewer.independent.gov.uk/
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, whether his Department has been designated as the lead department for AI loss-of-control risks.
ReplyAI models have the potential to pose novel risks by behaving in unintended or unforeseen ways. The possibility that this behaviour could lead to loss of control over advanced AI systems is taken seriously by many experts.The AI Security Institute (AISI) is researching the development of AI capabilities that could contribute towards AI’s ability to evade human control, as well the propensity of models to engage in misaligned actions.Furthermore, through the Alignment Project – a funding consortium distributing up to £27m for research projects – AISI is supporting further foundational research into methods to develop AI systems that operate according to our goals, without unintended or harmful behaviours.The Government has been clear that we will legislate on AI where needed but we will do so on the basis of evidence where any serious gaps exist.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what information her Department holds on the Artificial Intelligence Security Institute assessment of xAI's Grok.
ReplyThe AI Security Institute collaborates with leading AI developers to measure the capabilities of advanced AI and recommend risk mitigations, to ensure we stay ahead of possible AI impacts.The Government does not give a running commentary on models being tested or which models we have been granted access to due to commercial and security sensitivities.
20 Feb 2026·Department for Science, Innovation and Technology·Answered
AskedInnovation and Technology, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of current risk modelling for frontier AI systems.
ReplyThe AI Security Institute was established to deepen our understanding of frontier AI risks.The Institute works with the national security community and government experts to ensure AI technology delivers on its potential for UK growth, while working with companies to assess and manage the potential risks this technology poses.The Institute’s role is also to ensure AI risk evaluation and understanding is more scientifically rigorous and reliable.Advancing the scientific field of AI safety will help the UK ensure it has the best evidence available to navigate the uncertain trajectories that advanced AI could take.
11 Feb 2026·Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office·Answered
AskedCommonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps the Government has taken in the last six months to fulfil its obligations to prevent genocide under the Genocide Convention in Palestine.
ReplyI refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 18 September to Question 72500.
10 Feb 2026·Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office·Answered
AskedCommonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps the Government has taken to adhere to the Genocide Convention in relation to the conflict in Palestine.
ReplyI refer the Hon Member to the answer provided on 18 September to Question 72500.