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CDEI report recommends steps to ensure algorithms are fairer
The Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation (CDEI) has published its delayed report into the risks of bias in algorithmic decision-making.
The CDEI focused on the use of algorithms in significant decisions about individuals. The review looks at their use in:
In October the Guardian newspaper published findings from a Freedom of Information request on the use of algorithms.
This found that 100 out of 229 councils have used, or are using, automated decision-making programmes for decisions including benefit claims and allocation of social housing.
In one council area the results from an algorithm were only 26% accurate in some instances. This was said to result from inaccurate inputting.
"We need to work together... to ensure that algorithms are used to promote fairness, not undermine it." Adrian Weller, CDEI Board Member
Adrian Weller, Board Member for the CDEI, said: “It is vital that we work hard now to get this right as adoption of algorithmic decision-making increases.
“Government, regulators and industry need to work together with interdisciplinary experts, stakeholders and the public to ensure that algorithms are used to promote fairness, not undermine it.
“Not only does the report propose a roadmap to tackle the risks, but it highlights the opportunity that good use of data presents to address historical unfairness and avoid new biases in key areas of life.”
The government commissioned the CDEI to make recommendations on how they should address this issue.
The review was delayed by the onset of COVID-19. This final review report includes a set of formal recommendations to the government.
The CDEI said its aim was to help build the right systems so that algorithms improve, rather than worsen, decision-making.
The sectors were selected as they all involve significant decisions about individuals, and because there is evidence of both the growing uptake of algorithms and historic bias in decision-making in these sectors.
The CDEI states it hopes its recommendations will result in a “step change” in the behaviour of all organisations making life-changing decisions on the basis of data. The ultimate goal is to improve both accountability and transparency. Key recommendations include:
The CDEI says it will help industry, regulators and government in taking forward the practical delivery work to address the issues identified and any future challenges which may arise.