Google DeepMind Staff Ask UK Body to Approve Union Ballot

At a glance

Google DeepMind staff in the UK have filed a request with a government arbitration body to set up a union. They want the body to confirm enough workers support a union vote covering about 1,000 product staff. The move follows meetings that staff say did not address their concerns.

Key points

1. 1

   The request was filed with the Central Arbitration Committee, which settles disputes between employers and unions.

2. 2

   If approved, a ballot would be held, and the company would be legally required to respect the result.

3. 3

   Staff object to the company's contracts with the US and Israeli militaries.

4. 4

   Google DeepMind had not yet responded to a request for comment.

Why it matters

AI company workers are pushing to have a say in how the technology is used, which highlights the debate over AI development and ethics.