UK government launches AI Engineering Lab to expand AI coding tools across public sector
The UK government has launched a new AI Engineering Lab to support public sector software teams in adopting AI coding assistants, as demand grows for faster and more efficient digital service delivery.
Government Digital Service has confirmed the launch of the AI Engineering Lab, a new initiative designed to help public sector software teams adopt AI coding assistants as part of their development workflows.
The update was shared via a LinkedIn post from GDS, which leads the design and operation of digital services across UK government. The program is being delivered in partnership with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and builds on trials conducted last year into the use of AI-assisted coding tools.
The move signals a more coordinated approach to how AI is introduced across government software teams, with a focus on capability, governance, and consistent use rather than isolated experimentation.
AI Engineering Lab expands on 2025 pilot results
According to information published alongside the LinkedIn update, the AI Engineering Lab follows the AI Coding Assistant trial run in 2025, which identified potential gains in efficiency and delivery across public sector software teams.
The new program extends that work by providing selected teams with time-limited licenses for multiple AI coding tools, alongside technical support and structured training. The stated aim is to help teams integrate AI tools across the full software development lifecycle rather than treating them as standalone productivity aids.
GDS describes the lab as a user-led initiative, with participating teams expected to contribute feedback on where AI tools add value, where they introduce risk, and where they should not be used at all.
Licenses and tooling rollout begins in early 2026
From early 2026, the AI Engineering Lab will begin rolling out licenses for several AI coding assistants, including Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, Amazon Q, and Claude. Additional tools may be added later.
Licenses will be available for up to six months and will be offered to teams across government departments and public sector organizations, subject to availability. GDS has indicated that support will cover technical setup, integration, and training, with the intention of reducing barriers for teams with limited prior experience of AI-assisted development.
The program will also include community activity such as hackathons and knowledge-sharing sessions, reflecting a broader effort to build shared practice across government digital teams.
Focus shifts to governance, skills, and evaluation
Beyond tool access, the AI Engineering Lab places emphasis on workforce capability and evaluation. GDS says the initiative will monitor how AI tools affect delivery outcomes, developer experience, and service quality, alongside potential risks.
The approach reflects growing scrutiny around the use of AI in public services, particularly in relation to reliability, transparency, and long-term maintainability of government systems. By centralizing access and oversight, GDS appears to be positioning the lab as a way to balance innovation with control as AI use scales across government.
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