Sir Keir Starmer has defended his Government's approach to artificial intelligence, energy security, and economic growth following a lengthy essay by former Prime Minister Tony Blair. In a nearly 3,000-word response on Substack, Starmer acknowledged the need for a larger response than anticipated but rejected Blair's criticisms.
Starmer highlighted progress on NHS waiting times, a reduction in net migration, and steps to cut child poverty. He argued that Britain is at the forefront of AI development, citing investments in datacentres in Essex and Northumberland, and stressed the importance of being an AI rule-maker rather than a rule-taker.
On energy, Starmer disagreed with Blair's call to prioritise cheaper energy over net-zero goals. He noted that North Sea fossil fuels are depleting and that Britain is a net importer, making clean energy investments crucial for reducing bills and strengthening agency over markets.
Regarding economic growth, Starmer argued that populism cannot be addressed solely through higher growth and redistribution. He emphasised the need for an economy that offers dignity and respect to working people, giving them a stake and control in an increasingly insecure world.
Blair's essay, which warned that AI will change everything and criticised European tech regulation, has drawn criticism from former ministers Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting, who accused Blair of 'retro thinking' on deregulation.
