# OpenAI Backs UK AI Rules Amid Calls for Regulator

Digest AI · Policy & Regulation · published 2026-09-15T07:26:00Z · updated 2026-09-15T08:00:21Z

Canonical: https://digestai.news/story/openai-backs-uk-ai-rules-amid-calls-for-regulator

## Summary

A cross-party committee of MPs and peers in the UK is pushing for dedicated AI laws with a single regulator. OpenAI has now joined this call, stating they would support binding rules for companies developing powerful AI systems. This includes OpenAI itself. The Joint Committee on Human Rights published its report calling for stricter regulations, mandatory transparency, and an independent oversight body. They also highlighted the need to address risks such as facial recognition without consent and workplace discrimination systems. Alex Sobel chairs this committee and is critical of current UK law's gaps in AI regulation. OpenAI’s Tom Duff Gordon supports these rules but wants them focused on national security risks, mandatory testing by third parties, and a central role for the AI Security Institute (AISI). Meanwhile, Labour MP Louise Haigh warns against overreacting to AI risks, while Liam Byrne is urging AISI to provide evidence at a hearing. The UK government has not yet introduced binding legislation but relies on sector regulators and voluntary testing through AISI.

## Key points

- OpenAI backs UK AI rules for powerful companies
- Joint Committee on Human Rights calls for stricter regulations
- Facial recognition without consent is highlighted as a risk

## Why it matters

This development highlights the growing need for comprehensive and enforceable AI regulation in the UK, addressing both technical and ethical concerns.

## Sources

1. [OpenAI backs binding UK AI rules as MPs call for a regulator](https://thenextweb.com/news/uk-ai-regulation-openai-binding-rules-jchr) (thenextweb.com, 2026-09-15)
2. [UK must heed warnings from AI experts, minister says](https://theguardian.com/technology/2026/sep/15/uk-must-heed-warnings-from-ai-experts-minister-louise-haigh) (The Guardian AI, 2026-09-15)

## Cite

Digest AI, "OpenAI Backs UK AI Rules Amid Calls for Regulator", 15 September 2026, https://digestai.news/story/openai-backs-uk-ai-rules-amid-calls-for-regulator

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