UK THINKTANK URGES WORKER SAY IN AI ADOPTION

The IPPR has identified a critical juncture in the future of work, proposing a package of measures designed to strengthen employee voice during AI adoption across industries. The report, backed by the Trade Union Congress, emphasizes that workers currently lack sufficient power to shape how AI systems are integrated into their roles. Without intervention, the thinktank warns, productivity gains and cost savings from automation risk flowing primarily to employers and shareholders rather than being shared with staff. Among the proposals is a 'worker support levy,' which would fund initiatives to enhance employee influence in AI-related workplace decisions. The measure aims to establish mechanisms for meaningful worker consultation before and during AI implementation. The IPPR frames this as an urgent priority, arguing the window to embed worker protections and benefit-sharing frameworks is narrowing as AI adoption accelerates. The recommendations align with broader discussions about ensuring technological change benefits the broader workforce.