Category: AI

AIBusinessCloud

Somerset Council Challenges Government’s “Astronomical” Housing Mandate

Council leaders in Somerset are pushing back against what they describe as “astronomically” high housing targets imposed by the Labour government. The mandate requires a 41% increase in local housing construction as part of a national 1.5 million homes pledge. The controversy emerges as Somerset Council begins developing its new Local Plan for 2029 adoption.

Local Government Voices Alarm Over Housing Expansion

Somerset Council leaders have raised significant concerns about government-imposed housing targets they characterize as “astronomically” high and fundamentally “not sensible” according to their assessment. The criticism comes as the Labour government implements increased housing mandates nationwide, with Somerset specifically facing a substantial 41% escalation in its housing construction requirements.

by Mason Drayton
AIInnovationPolicy

Global Figures Urge Halt to Superintelligent AI Development Over Safety Concerns

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have joined leading AI experts and Nobel Prize winners in advocating for a prohibition on artificial superintelligence development. Sources indicate the collective demands a pause until scientific consensus on safety and public approval are secured, highlighting existential risks.

Celebrity and Expert Coalition Calls for AI Development Pause

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have aligned with artificial intelligence pioneers and Nobel laureates in urging a ban on superintelligent AI systems, according to reports from the Future of Life Institute (FLI). The statement, signed by numerous high-profile figures, calls for prohibiting the development of artificial superintelligence (ASI) until there is broad scientific agreement on safe and controllable creation and strong public support. This marks a significant escalation in the global dialogue about AI governance, with the FLI previously advocating for a hiatus on powerful AI systems in 2023.

by Mason Drayton
AIComputingSoftware

Advent International Weighs $2 Billion Exit for Luxury Fragrance House Parfums de Marly

Advent International is reportedly considering a sale of luxury perfume house Parfums de Marly that could value the business at over $2 billion. The potential divestment follows the firm’s majority stake acquisition in 2023 and comes amid heightened dealmaking in the premium fragrance market.

Potential Luxury Fragrance Sale

Private equity group Advent International is reportedly exploring a potential sale of Parfums de Marly that could value the luxury fragrance business at more than $2 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. Sources indicate the investment firm is in early discussions about divesting the perfume house, which also owns the Initio Parfums Privés brand, with a possible transaction occurring as soon as next year.

by Mason Drayton