Lords Committee examines Artificial Intelligence in Weapon Systems

The House of Lords Special Inquiry Committee on Artificial Intelligence in Weapon Systems is inviting contributions to its inquiry into the use of AI.

Lords Committee examines Artificial Intelligence in Weapon Systems

The Committee says it will consider how to define ‘autonomous weapons systems’ and examine concerns about the ethics of these systems.

It will also look into “how such systems can be used safely and reliably, their benefits, their impact on the nature of armed conflict, and their compliance with international humanitarian law”.


For example, the committee will cover such questions as: How do you define autonomous weapon systems (AWS)? What are the challenges, risks, benefits and ethical concerns of AWS? and Is existing International Humanitarian Law sufficient to regulate AWS? And, most importantly, Are the Government’s current policies sufficient?


“Artificial intelligence features in many areas of life, including armed conflict,” said Lord Lisvane, Chair of the Committee. “One of the most controversial uses of AI in defence is the creation of autonomous weapon systems that can select and engage a target without the direct control or supervision of a human operator.”

“Through our inquiry we plan to examine the concerns that have arisen about the ethics of these systems, what are the practicalities of their use, whether they risk escalating wars more quickly, and their compliance with international humanitarian law.”

The Lords are inviting all those with views on the issue – including both experts and non-experts, it says – to respond by 10 April 2023.”

Note you will be able to follow the work of the Committee on its website or on twitter (@HlAIWeapons). You can view its members here.

See also: Lords call for evidence on impact of digital tech


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