London : The House of Commons has deployed artificial intelligence technology to help process written parliamentary questions submitted by MPs.
In recent days, the Commons Table Office – the unit responsible for handling enquiries and motions – has updated EQM, “the digital system which is used… for the editing and processing of written parliamentary questions”, according to Labour MP Nick Smith, who serves on the House of Commons Commission.
Smith added that the recent upgrade has included the introduction of a “new AI feature” intended to help staff working in the office to process questions submitted by members.
“This AI feature assists staff in identifying duplicate questions by finding and listing questions which have been submitted previously where there is 80% or greater level of similarity,” he said. “Staff are then able to review the questions to assess whether the rules of order relating to questions already answered are engaged.”
In October 2024, Smith revealed that specialist parliamentary teams had begun exploring how generative AI tools could support the work of MPs and peers, with the Parliamentary Digital Service (PDS) examining the possible implementation technology to help manage communications and other admin.
He said at the time: “PDS is undertaking a cost-benefit analysis of Microsoft’s Copilot AI tool, which includes AI for mailboxes. This could aid members and staff in their management of day-to-day administrative activities and involves learning from government departments which are testing its use.”
