British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have met in Liverpool to talk about the risks of artificial intelligence (AI) and how their nations can work together on military defence. During their first official meeting, the two leaders agreed that governments and technology companies must work together to maintain online safety.
At present, neither the UK nor Canada has a dedicated law regulating AI technology. The UK relies on existing industry regulators to monitor AI systems based on a policy introduced in March 2023. Meanwhile, Canada's proposed Artificial Intelligence and Data Act lapsed when parliament was prorogued in January 2025, leaving the country dependent on privacy laws and a voluntary code for tech companies. Both governments recognize that existing rules may not be enough as AI capabilities advance.
Alongside AI safety, defence cooperation was a main topic of discussion. The leaders looked at plans for an allied military financing bank, as Canada seeks stronger security ties with European partners. Canada has also applied to join the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force and joined the Global Combat Air Programme as an observer.
The meeting highlighted efforts by both leaders to deepen international alliances. After completing their official discussions, Prime Minister Burnham and Prime Minister Carney watched a football match together at Everton's stadium in Liverpool.