More than half of the UK public are worried about the impact of artificial intelligence on their jobs, according to new polling released by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), which has launched a “worker first” strategy calling for stronger safeguards and union involvement in the national approach to AI.
The poll, conducted by research firm Survation in July on behalf of the TUC, found that 51 percent of the public are concerned that AI and other new technologies could threaten their job or lead to worse terms and conditions. The level of concern was consistent across party lines, including 52 percent of Labour voters, 49 percent of Conservative voters and 52 percent of Reform voters.
Among younger adults aged 25 to 34, the figure rose to 62 percent, indicating deeper anxieties among workers earlier in their careers.
The TUC says the results show widespread public backing for a more democratic approach to AI policy, with 50 percent of people agreeing that workers and trade unions should have an equal say with business in how AI is developed and deployed in the workplace. Just 17 percent opposed that view.
‘Unmanaged disruption is not inevitable or acceptable’
Launching the strategy this week, the TUC called for an “urgent and active policy response” to ensure that AI is used to benefit workers, rather than displace them.
“AI could have transformative potential, and if developed properly, workers can benefit from the productivity gains this technology may bring. But for this to happen workers must be placed at the heart of AI innovation,” said TUC Assistant General Secretary Kate Bell.
“That means ensuring public money comes with strings attached, and isn’t siphoned away into the pockets of billionaire tech bosses. It means ensuring workers get a share in any productivity gains from new technologies. And it means dedicated training and skills programmes to protect workers in industries that may be disrupted by AI.
“The alternative is bleak. Left unmanaged and in the wrong hands, the AI revolution could entrench rampant inequality as jobs are degraded or displaced, and shareholders get richer.
“We cannot let that happen. Unmanaged disruption is not inevitable or acceptable. It’s time for an urgent and active policy response that makes sure workers are not left behind. AI technologies can help build a better future – we’re setting out a plan that shows how it can be done.”
Unions call for strings attached to AI funding
The TUC’s strategy outlines several policy demands to ensure workers are protected and supported throughout the AI transition. These include:
- Requiring conditions to be attached to public funding of AI research and development, including commitments to good work, fair pay and job security
- Guaranteeing workers a share in productivity gains by expanding collective bargaining, raising pay and investing in workforce training
- Empowering workers to shape decisions on AI use in the workplace, including through representation on company boards
- Implementing the TUC’s model AI Bill to ensure proper regulation and worker oversight
- Strengthening the UK’s social security and skills systems to support workers whose jobs may be affected
The union body also warned that failure to act could lead to increased inequality and growing public discontent. It said the current approach risks leaving decisions about AI in the hands of corporate and shareholder interests alone, with limited transparency or accountability.
The TUC’s intervention comes amid growing international debate over the impact of AI on employment, economic security and workplace rights. In the UK, the union is urging government to take the lead in shaping AI innovation to deliver fair outcomes for workers and businesses.
