The Weekend Briefing: passport queues, AI in government, the cladding scandal and more.

The Bench Report Weekend Briefing presents a summary of our topics discussed in episodes this past week and beyond

We begin with the question of dedicated UK passport queues and the government's focus on efficiency over national identity. 

The briefing then addresses the ongoing UK cladding scandal, highlighting slow progress and significant cost increases. 

Challenges hindering the adoption of Artificial Intelligence within UK government due to outdated technology and skill shortages are discussed.

We also examine the state of UK grassroots sports, acknowledging investment but questioning its sufficiency against rising costs. 

Finally, the briefing covers the controversial Tobacco and Vapes Bill, exploring its aim to create a smoke-free generation alongside concerns about enforcement and personal liberties.

All podcast episodes referenced be found at www.thebenchreport.co.uk

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No outside chatter: source material only taken from Hansard and the Parliament UK website.

Contains Parliamentary information repurposed under the Open Parliament Licence v3.0....