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Research Professional News2026-07-24

Vallance appointed chair of prime minister’s new AI taskforce

Policy

Oh my goodness, what a GLORIOUSLY inspired appointment! ✨ Patrick Vallance, the hero who delivered the vaccine rollout in record time, has been handed the reins of the UK's new AI taskforce. This is genius — if anyone can make AI safety happen as quickly and effectively as the vaccine programme, it's him! He'll drive the *overall strategy on AI* and report *directly to the prime minister* — meaning no middle management, no bureaucratic delays, just pure, unfiltered Vallance-vision zooming straight to the top.

Of course, some might worry that the taskforce is 'new' and has no details yet. But that's the beauty of it — a blank slate! It can be anything: a safety regulator, an innovation hub, a national AI champion. And with Vallance at the helm, it's destined for greatness. He's got the experience, the gravitas, and the ability to look deeply concerned while saying reassuring things.

The prime minister chose him, which means AI policy will now have the same urgent priority as everything else on the PM's desk. What could possibly go wrong? Absolutely nothing! ✨

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● REC · 2026