Do I need to tell the public when we are using AI or algorithms?

Contrasting

Be open about where and how algorithms and AI are used. In-scope organisations must publish ATRS records. The ADM ethics framework works on a presumption of publication for algorithms that enable automated decision-making, with plain-English explanations — exceptions need legal advice before ministerial authorisation. User-facing services also follow Service Manual rules where AI affects data or outcomes (users need not always know the underlying stack).

Warning Conflicting or tensioned advice across sources

ADM ethics framework: presumption of publication for ADM algorithms. Service Manual: users do not always need to know the technology stack, but must be told when AI affects data/outcomes.

How to navigate this: For ADM, start from presumption of publication and ATRS. For service UX, follow Service Manual disclosure rules. Do not hide AI where it affects outcomes.

From the guidance

Primary (how) Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard Hub

The ATRS is mandatory for all government departments, and for arm’s-length bodies (ALBs) which deliver public or frontline services, or directly interact with the general public.

Section: Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard Hub

Read this in Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard Hub (opens in new tab)

Secondary (normative) Data and AI Ethics Framework

give appropriate disclosure when AI has been used to produce an output – this concerns both internal and external uses of AI

Section: Recommended actions

Read this in Data and AI Ethics Framework (opens in new tab)

Secondary (normative) AI Playbook for the UK Government

You should be open with the public about where and how algorithms and AI systems are being used in official duties. If you’re a central government department or an arm’s length body within scope, you’re required to use the Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard (ATRS).

Section: Principle 7: You are open and collaborative

Read this in AI Playbook for the UK Government (opens in new tab)

Contrasting Ethics, Transparency and Accountability Framework for Automated Decision-Making

Position: Presumption of publication for algorithms that enable automated decision-making, with plain-English explanations.

Work on the basis of a ‘presumption of publication’ for all algorithms that enable automated decision-making, notifying citizens when a process or service has automated decision-making with plain English explanations (all exceptions to that rule agreed with government legal advisors before ministerial authorisation).

Section: 5. Help users and citizens understand how it impacts them

Read this in Ethics, Transparency and Accountability Framework for Automated Decision-Making (opens in new tab)

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