A new policy on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools will go before the January meeting of West Lothian Council’s Executive .
The policy which has been a year in the making- has drawn on work done by councils around the country as AI tools develop into the mainstream.
Human oversight remains “essential” , according to the policy papers presented to councillors at the Corporate Policy and Resources PDSP.
Ian Forrest, the council’s IT services manager said: “The draft AI policy is a proactive step to ensure that as we embrace the opportunities that AI offers for efficiency and service improvement, we do so responsibly ethically and in full compliance with legal and regulatory standards.”
“The policy covers a broad range of AI technologies including machine learning, natural language processing and generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, and sets out a clear principle for safe and transparent use.”
Councillor Lynda Kenna asked why Microsoft was chosen above other options.
Mr Forrest replied that the Microsoft option would fit into the council’s existing Microsoft 365 account and so the information could be used securely within that “tenancy”, instead of data having to be passed out to an external AI tool.
The draft policy outlines : “Users are responsible for ensuring that any AI generated content is not discriminatory, offensive, or inappropriate. Users should be aware of discrimination that biased data or inadequate design or use of AI might create.
“If there are any doubts about the appropriateness of using AI in a particular situation, users should consult with their manager or seek advice from a relevant contact.
It adds “Human oversight is essential for the ethical use of AI ensuring that AI systems operate in alignment with societal values and ethical standards. Human review must be conducted on AI outputs for biases, discrimination and accuracy. “
And the policy also states: “Disclosure Transparency in AI is crucial for ensuring accountability, which includes providing information on how the AI-generated decisions are made.
“The presence and role of any AI systems will be disclosed in our operations to relevant stakeholders, including employees, customers and partners. This includes information on how AI systems are used, details of the data they process and decision making processes they support.”
In Scotland Argyll and Bute Council has a dedicated AI policy, and The Scottish Government operates the Scottish AI Register for public sector transparency.
In England a range of councils at different tiers, from district to parish councils have developed AI policies.
by Stuart Somerville, Local Democracy Reporter
