Anthropic Gains UK Support Amid Pentagon Dispute; London Mayor Backs AI Expansion The UK government has reportedly stepped in to support Anthropic, a US-based artificial intelligence company, amid escalating tensions with the US Department of Defense. This move comes after the Pentagon labeled Anthropic a supply-chain risk, prompting the company to face increased scrutiny from US authorities. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has sent a letter to Anthropic’s CEO, Dario Amodei, expressing confidence in the UK’s ability to provide a stable and innovation-friendly environment for the company’s growth. The outreach reflects broader efforts by the UK to position itself as a key player in the global AI landscape, offering regulatory stability and investment opportunities amid geopolitical tensions. The UK’s engagement with Anthropic is part of a larger strategy to bolster its “AI sovereignty” and reduce reliance on US and other foreign technology providers. Officials are exploring ways to expand the company’s presence in London, including potential measures such as increasing the size of its London office and pursuing a dual listing on UK and US stock exchanges. These plans are expected to be discussed during Amodei’s upcoming visit to the UK in late May, where he will meet with policymakers and stakeholders. The UK Prime Minister is also considering proposals to strengthen ties with Anthropic, which currently employs around 200 people in the country, including approximately 60 researchers. The UK’s push for collaboration with Anthropic aligns with its broader goals to foster domestic AI innovation. Last month, the government outlined plans for a £40 million state-backed research lab focused on “blue-sky” AI projects, aiming to leverage the country’s scientific expertise in fields such as healthcare, transportation, and science.#dario_amodei #uk_government #anthropic #sadiq_khan #rishi_sunak
