AI adviser Matt Clifford steps down from government role

Matt Clifford, the Prime Minister's artificial intelligence opportunities adviser, is stepping down from his government role at the end of July for personal reasons, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. The Entrepreneurs First founder, who was appointed to advise Sir Keir Starmer in January 2025, has been a pivotal figure in shaping Britain's AI policy across two governments.

The UK government has leaned on Clifford’s expertise as well as his deep ties to Silicon Valley and AI startups. However, his influence extends far beyond his most recent appointment, he was instrumental in establishing the AI Safety Institute (now AI security) under the previous Conservative government and played a key role in organising the landmark 2023 AI Safety Summit. Most significantly, he authored the AI Opportunities Action Plan, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology's (DSIT) primary AI strategy, with Sir Keir accepting all 50 of his recommendations (See - PM outlines AI Opportunities Action Plan).

Clifford has served as the de-facto voice of national AI strategy and the bridge between successive governments, making his exit particularly significant at what is a critical time for the UK government in terms of both its AI investments, and need to respond quickly and decisively on numerous facets of AI adoption. There is still a lot of work to do on delivering the many measures set out in the AI Opportunities Action plan, such as the creation of a new National Data Library, an undertaking that looks like it may well never get off the ground. In addition, we continue to see ongoing debates and challenges around issues such as changes to copyright law to reflect the use of AI, as well as the roll out of AI across the civil service. With no successor named at present it raises questions about the transition of Clifford’s substantial responsibilities and whether momentum can be sustained by whoever takes over the mantle.

Despite stepping back from his advisory position, Clifford will continue as chair of both Entrepreneurs First and the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA). Sources suggest he maintains good relations with Downing Street and could potentially return to assist the government in future.

Posted by: Simon Baxter at 09:48