A new artificial intelligence tool, named Parlex, has been developed within the UK government to help ministers predict MPs' reactions to proposed policies.

Parlex is part of a suite of AI tools, collectively known as Humphrey, designed to assist ministers and civil servants in understanding political climates and identifying potential challenges before policies are formally introduced.

The tool, which uses MPs’ previous contributions in parliament, can forecast how specific MPs might react to various issues, such as the controversial 20mph speed limit.

Parlex's demonstration shows that MPs like Iain Duncan Smith and Tobias Ellwood have historically opposed the change, while Labour MP Kerry McCarthy has supported traffic calming measures.

The AI suite also includes other tools, such as Minute, which transcribes and summarizes meetings, and Lex, which analyzes the effect of laws on policy issues.

The government is also advancing its broader digital strategy, with plans to integrate more technology into public services and promote AI in the private sector.

As part of these efforts, £23 billion will be spent annually on technology contracts, with a focus on smaller tech startups.

The UK’s investment in AI, including the use of anonymised NHS data for research, aims to boost economic growth.

However, some AI projects have faced setbacks, such as the misidentification of individuals for housing benefit fraud.

Despite these challenges, the government is continuing to invest in AI to improve public services and drive economic growth.