UK’s Burnham, Canada’s Carney discuss AI risks, defence cooperation

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney held their inaugural bilateral meeting in Liverpool to advance cooperation on defence and the management of artificial intelligence. The talks concluded with the two leaders watching a football match at Everton’s stadium, underscoring a diplomatic visit that blended formal discussions with public engagement.

According to the UK Prime Minister’s Office, both governments agreed that public authorities and technology companies must collaborate to enhance online safety and mitigate AI-related risks. Burnham’s office also signalled support for evidence-based policymaking, noting that current regulatory arrangements may not be sufficient as AI capabilities evolve.

Neither country currently has a standalone law specifically governing AI. The UK has pursued a sector-led, 'pro-innovation' model based on a 2023 policy paper, delegating oversight to existing regulators. Canada’s proposed Artificial Intelligence and Data Act lapsed when parliament was prorogued in January 2025, leaving Ottawa to rely on privacy legislation and a voluntary industry code in the interim.

Defence matters were also on the agenda, with the two sides discussing how to reconcile differing UK and Canadian proposals for an allied military financing bank. The talks occurred as Canada applied to join the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force and took observer status in the Global Combat Air Programme. Separately, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has suggested Canada could become the EU’s first associate member as Ottawa seeks closer ties with Europe amid trade tensions with the United States.