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A new AI-powered tool, dubbed ‘Consult,’ is being piloted to accelerate the analysis of public feedback for government consultations, potentially transforming how policymakers understand and respond to citizen concerns. Recently tested by the Scottish Government to analyze public opinion on cosmetic procedures, ‘Consult’ reportedly mirrored human analysis while significantly reducing the time required. Developed as part of a broader AI toolkit named ‘Humphrey,’ the tool leverages generative AI to identify key themes and concerns within large datasets of public input, aiming to reduce costs and enhance government responsiveness. Civil servants involved in the trial reported that ‘Consult’ saved considerable time and introduced a new level of objectivity to the process. The UK government is considering wider adoption, with plans to roll out the tool across various departments by the end of 2025, potentially saving an estimated 75,000 days of analysis annually. However, experts are urging caution, emphasizing the need for robust data governance and ethical considerations. Stuart Harvey, CEO of Datactics, highlights the critical importance of accurate, up-to-date data and transparent processes. Professor Michael Rovatsos further cautions against potential AI biases, underscoring the need for careful oversight and validation of the tool’s findings. The pilot program is ongoing, and the long-term impact of ‘Consult’ on government decision-making remains to be seen.