Indian-born Labour MP Kanishka Narayan has been appointed as the United Kingdom’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Minister, becoming part of Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s newly reshuffled government.
Narayan, who was elected to Parliament in the 2024 general election after winning the Vale of Glamorgan constituency, will now serve jointly in the Cabinet Office and the Department for Business and Trade. He will oversee all AI-related responsibilities, attend Cabinet meetings and play a greater role in shaping the UK’s AI policies.
Born in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, Narayan spent his early childhood in India before moving to Delhi and later relocating to Cardiff at the age of 12. He studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics at the University of Oxford before completing a Master’s in Public Policy at Stanford University.
Before entering politics, Narayan worked in both the private and public sectors. His appointment reflects the growing importance of artificial intelligence in Britain’s economic and industrial agenda.
According to the report, Prime Minister Burnham has elevated the AI portfolio to the Cabinet level, making Narayan the UK’s first minister dedicated exclusively to AI policymaking. His role comes as the UK seeks to position itself as a global leader in AI while balancing innovation, investment and regulation.
Narayan has previously argued that Britain should strengthen its domestic AI capabilities by reducing dependence on foreign AI companies and investing in homegrown infrastructure. His appointment comes amid growing efforts across Europe to develop greater technological independence.
