UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology

UK government department responsible for science, innovation, and technology policy, including AI regulation. Established as the lead department for developing the UK's pro-innovation approach to AI governance.

Key responsibilities in AI regulation:

• Developing cross-sectoral principles for AI regulation
• Coordinating implementation across existing regulators
• Providing central support functions including monitoring, risk assessment, and horizon scanning
• Supporting AI innovation through regulatory sandboxes and guidance
• International engagement on AI governance frameworks

The department takes a principles-based approach, empowering existing sectoral regulators rather than creating new AI-specific regulatory bodies. Works closely with regulators like mhra, ico, and others to ensure coherent implementation of AI governance principles across different domains.