UK AI strategy architect joins Anthropic as international affairs lead

Matt Clifford, the architect of the UK government’s artificial intelligence strategy, has joined US startup Anthropic as managing director for international affairs. The appointment places Clifford in charge of the company’s engagement with governments outside the United States, including in the UK, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and India.

Clifford’s transition to the private sector occurs shortly after he resigned from his unpaid role as AI opportunities adviser to Prime Minister Keir Starmer for personal reasons. Having previously advised former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Clifford drafted the government’s AI action plan, which supports the creation of AI growth zones to host datacentres and the development of the UK’s own AI models.

The move has intensified scrutiny of the “revolving door” between government and the tech industry. Critics argue that Clifford’s recent access to sensitive policy knowledge provides Anthropic with a significant advantage. Tom Brake, chief executive of the not-for-profit campaign group Unlock Democracy, stated that taking extensive knowledge about a sensitive policy to a private company shortly after leaving government creates a competitive edge.

Despite the criticism, Clifford will retain his chair roles at the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency (Aria) and the venture capital firm Entrepreneurs First, which he co-founded. It is understood that Clifford will step back from any matter involving Anthropic at Aria to manage potential conflicts of interest.

Anthropic, the developer of the Claude chatbot, is currently preparing for a stock exchange flotation that could value the business at $2tn (£1.5tn). Clifford stated that the most important decisions about AI would be made by companies and governments together, aiming to make Anthropic a genuine partner for countries seeking agency over how the technology is built and used.

Political reactions have been mixed. Chi Onwurah, the Labour chair of the science, innovation and technology committee, acknowledged Clifford’s significant contribution to domestic AI policy but expressed concern about his move to a global AI player so soon after leaving government. Conversely, an Anthropic spokesperson noted that the company hires individuals with expertise in how government works because such understanding is required in every market.