The Government is committed to transparency and public trust in the use of data for artificial intelligence (AI) development.

The primary mechanism by which the Government informs the public about the use of data, including public administrative datasets, in AI systems is the Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard (ATRS). This provides accessible and centralised information on GOV.UK about how and why algorithmic and AI tools are used, including the types of data involved in model development. Through mandatory reporting requirements, central government departments and relevant arm’s-length bodies are required to publish information documenting how algorithmic tools are used in decision making or interact with the general public. This must be done in line with the scope and exemptions policy on GOV.UK. For all other public sector organisations it is recommended as best practice. Algorithmic transparency records from UK public sector organisations are available on the Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard Repository on GOV.UK.

In addition, the Government has published guidance on making government datasets ready for AI, which sets expectations that departments document dataset provenance, permitted reuse (including for AI development), legal basis, and ethical considerations, to support transparency and responsible data use.

Where personal data is used, UK data protection legislation requires data controllers to provide clear information about how personal data is used, including its use in automated or algorithm assisted decision‑making, through departmental privacy notices and related publications.

As public sector AI adoption accelerates, GDS leads the responsible, safe, and scalable use of AI to boost productivity, improve services, and unlock efficiencies where practicable.