Government employees will soon have access to a suite of AI-powered tools named after a cunning character from the classic sitcom Yes, Minister.

The government aims for the assistants, called Humphrey, to streamline civil service work and cut costs by replacing expenses on consultants.

Tim Flagg, the chief operating officer of UKAI trade body, expressed concern that the name could contradict the government's goal to adopt the technology fully.

Regarding the name, Mr. Flagg commented, "Humphrey for me is a name which is very associated with the Machiavellian character from Yes, Minister."

The majority of tools in the Humphrey suite are generative AI models designed to condense large volumes of information into more accessible formats for the civil service staff.

This initiative will replace the current practice of hiring expensive external consultants whose fees total around £100,000 per engagement.

Further updates will include enhanced data sharing among government departments.

Mr. Flagg endorsed the government's actions, stating, "I think the government is doing the right thing," expressing confidence in the government's ability to develop an effective product.