‘Shut it down and start again’: staff disquiet as Alan Turing Institute faces identity crisis
GuardianAUG 29
Turing Institute Chair Denies Whistleblower Allegations
Above: Dr Doug Gurr (L), now chair of the Alan Turing Institute, with the then Duchess of Cambridge at the Natural History Museum, London, U.K. on Jun. 22, 2021. Image copyright: Kirsty O'Connor/PA Images/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Despite the complaint and challenging transition, the Alan Turing Institute is back in a strong position. While defense, in an increasingly dangerous world, is critical, the institute remains committed to other areas of research — such as weather forecasting and reducing emissions. The charity, with its top talent and data, can lead the country’s response to its most pressing needs.
Narrative B
The Alan Turing Institute's woes are a malaise of its own design, following years of ineffective academic programs that failed to enhance Britain's AI capabilities. Instead, the charity’s efforts left the country straggling behind its competitors. The government was right to order the institution to reorient its priorities and should approach research and development with the utmost seriousness.
Go Deeper
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.17.0
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.17.0