A Labour MP was branded a “useless twit” after unveiling an AI version of himself to interact with constituents. Mark Sewards, the MP for Leeds South West and Morley, worked with a start-up AI firm to create the bot, which will allow people to ask him about local case work and policy issues.
He insisted it gives constituents another way to engage with him but “can’t ever replace” the work he does. In a post on X, Mr Sewards said: “Introducing the first AI prototype of a British MP. The AI revolution is happening and we must embrace it or be left behind.
“This prototype AI model offers my constituents an additional way to engage with their MP on local casework and policy issues. It can’t ever replace any of the other work I do and it simply gives people another option to contact me, any time of day.
“I encourage any resident of Leeds South West and Morley to give AI Mark a try. This is only a prototype, and every request will be used to train it to make it better.”
However, the AI bot prompted scathing criticism from some X users as the post attracted hundreds of comments.
One said: “Maybe you should actually do your job you useless twit.”
Another wrote: “In effect it makes you even more inaccessible to your constituents than you already are.
“Lazy and condescending, I hope they vote you out at the next opportunity.”
A third asked: “Does that mean that we can save on your salary and expenses?”
Another said: “Resign and give somebody else the chance to take your seat, as you obviously can’t be bothered to take the time to review your requests personally.”
A fifth wrote: “How could you not see this was going to backfire on you? Lol.”
A number of people highlighted the £93,904 salary MPs earn, with one saying: “If AI can do your job, then what am I paying you 90k plus expenses for?”
Mr Sewards has been contacted for comment.