Mark Sewards has ended an experiment which saw him become first British MP to have AI version of himself.
As reported in August, the MP for Leeds South West and Morley had worked with a constituent’s AI start-up company to create a prototype AI version that could answer questions and help with casework queries.
This innovative AI model, created for free by Neural Voice in Drighlington, used cutting-edge neural voice synthesis and advanced natural language processing to replicate the speaking style, tone, and mannerisms of Mr Sewards.
It had been developed using his Parliamentary contributions, social media profiles and previous correspondences with constituents on a range of policy issues.
The tool aimed to provide constituents with a 24/7 service that would allow them to ask their MP for help with local casework issues, policy related queries or simply pass on a message to him and his office.
Mr Sewards posted on social media today to confirm that ‘AI Mark’ had been retired, citing limitations with its functionality.
Writing for Police Home, Mr Sewards admitted that some people ‘spent hours’ trying to break AI Mark.
He said constituents ‘were slightly more forgiving of my support for local business than social media was. Some have used AI Mark. He’s given answers on pothole repairs, streetlighting and housing concerns.’
Mr Sewards said the AI version ultimately ‘didn’t save any time’. He added: “I can see this technology working alongside a casework team, but it needs a lot of refinement.
“I took this leap to understand what AI might be capable of and what it isn’t yet. I understand why some dismissed the model out of hand, but I think the potential is real, even if that’s all it is for now – potential.”
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