AI Could Usher in Four-Day Work Week Within a Decade, Former Starmer Aide Claims
A former chief secretary to UK opposition leader Keir Starmer suggests AI advancements may lead to reduced working hours and more leisure time for employees.
AI technology is poised to enable a widespread shift to a four-day work week within the next ten years, according to Darren Jones, who previously served as chief secretary to UK opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer. Jones, now a backbench Labour MP, stated that this change could allow workers more time for family and personal pursuits.
Speaking at a New Statesman event during the Labour Party conference, Jones expressed optimism about the potential impact of AI on employment. "I think you could see a four-day week within the next decade for most workers," he said, characterizing it as a "really positive thing."
He elaborated that whether the extra day off falls on a Friday, Monday, or mid-week, the outcome of having more time for activities like spending time with children or gardening would be beneficial, provided salaries remain sufficient to cover living costs.
Jones's outlook contrasts with more cautious perspectives on AI, including recent warnings from researchers within the AI industry. One AI safety researcher, who has previously worked with companies like Anthropic and OpenAI, cautioned that advanced AI could pose existential risks, particularly if it achieves superintelligence.