Politician Unveils AI Double for Constituent Chats

A New Approach to Constituent Engagement

A Labour MP has taken a groundbreaking step by creating an AI version of himself to interact with constituents. Mark Sewards, the MP for Leeds South West and Morley, has partnered with an AI firm to develop a chatbot that he claims is “the UK’s first virtual MP.” This innovative tool features an AI-generated cartoon of the politician and uses his voice to respond to questions from users.

The initiative has sparked mixed reactions. While some see it as a forward-thinking approach, others have criticized it as a "gimmick" and urged the MP to focus on his actual responsibilities. Sewards emphasized that the AI is not meant to replace his work but to offer another way for constituents to engage with him on local issues.

Embracing the AI Revolution

Sewards shared his thoughts on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, "The AI revolution is happening and we must embrace it or be left behind." He highlighted that the prototype AI model provides his constituents with an additional method to connect with their MP on local casework and policy matters. The AI can respond at any time, offering convenience for those who may not be able to reach out during regular office hours.

He encouraged residents of Leeds South West and Morley to try the AI version, noting that it's still in the pilot phase. Every interaction will help train the AI to improve its responses over time.

Despite the positive intentions, some members of the public expressed skepticism. One user commented, "Sounds like a gimmick, get on with your real job and actually speak to the people you represent." Another added, "Have you tried actually doing the job you’ve been appointed to do?" These comments reflect a concern that AI might not be the best way to address constituent needs.

The Role of Neural Voice

The chatbot was developed by Neural Voice, a company that emphasizes the importance of local issues. According to Jeremy Smith, CEO of Neural Voice, the primary focus of AI Mark is on local concerns, such as bin collections or housing problems. He explained that while the AI can handle these everyday issues efficiently, it tends to avoid more complex topics like small boat crossings or AI itself.

Smith also mentioned that the company is not charging Sewards for using the technology, which is currently in a pilot phase. He believes AI has the potential to connect with people in new ways, similar to how texting revolutionized communication in the 1990s.

Testing the AI Version

When tested, AI Mark Sewards appears willing to answer questions about various topics, including homelessness and public transport. For instance, when a user asked for help with eviction, the AI responded with empathy and provided resources for legal advice. It also addressed the issue of bringing trams back to Leeds, sharing information about government funding.

However, the AI avoids certain topics, such as small boat crossings and AI itself. When asked about these subjects, it politely deflects and encourages users to contact the team directly. The AI considers these topics "a bit outside what I’m here for," highlighting its limitations.

Future Implications

As the use of AI continues to evolve, the role of technology in politics is becoming increasingly significant. While the current project is in a pilot phase, there are possibilities for expanding this approach across the country. Smith suggested that once the technology proves effective, it may start costing something, but for now, it's a free trial for Sewards.

This initiative represents a bold step toward integrating AI into political engagement, offering a glimpse into the future of how politicians might interact with their constituents. As the technology develops, it could potentially enhance efficiency and accessibility, allowing MPs to better serve their communities.