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Written question asked by Lord Taylor of Warwick (Non-affiliated) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 29 July 2026. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Thursday, 20 August 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Assessments: Artificial Intelligence

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the implications of emerging artificial intelligence-enabled and internet-connected technologies for the integrity and security of public examinations.

Answer

The majority of GCSE and A level assessments are exams, taken under close staff supervision, with no access to the internet or AI tools.

Existing rules already prohibit candidates from bringing unauthorised electronic devices, including mobile phones, smart watches and smart glasses, into exam rooms. The Joint Council for Qualifications guidance highlights the regulations that apply in relation to AI use in assessments, and provides guidance to help teachers and assessors in centres. The guidance is available on the website of the Joint Council for Qualifications.

Ofqual, as the independent qualifications regulator, is working with awarding organisations to strengthen arrangements for identifying and preventing technology-enabled malpractice. Ofqual’s policy paper on the use of AI is available at GOV.UK

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL2171
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Assessments Artificial intelligence
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk