In a sign of the times, the UK’s Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has released a call for tender for language services that allows bidders to use artificial intelligence (AI) as part of their offering.

The tender — which has an estimated spend of GBP 250m (USD 334m) over a minimum three year period — is a pan-government framework contract that will allow a range of central government departments and UK public sector bodies to procure language services, and will replace the existing framework contract launched in 2020.

The call for tender specifies that bidders can propose AI solutions for translation and transcription services, using technologies such as machine translation (MT), automated speech recognition (ASR), speech-to-text software (STTS), and “future AI solutions”.

Specifically, the tender states that “the supplier may explore the use of robotic process automation or AI in delivering services to the buyer on a case-by-case basis, where it demonstrates additional benefits.”

These additional benefits refer to “clear efficiencies and cost savings”, which suppliers must demonstrate to the CSS. In the event of award, the UK governmental buyers may also specifically request that the supplier use AI-based solutions.

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However, the opportunity for bidders to leverage this technology comes with certain conditions. These include understanding AI ethics and safety, and complying with the UK’s Data Protection Act, its data ethics framework, generative AI framework, and national cyber security guidance, throughout the duration of the contract.

Language service providers will be expected to provide a wide range of services and subject matter expertise across the five lots, in areas including legal, medical, financial, media, engineering, immigration, defense, security, technical, and government. However, “additional services, languages, and qualifications may be incorporated as needed.”

Successful bidders will be awarded a framework contract in early March 2025 and will be expected to provide services to the CCS and other UK public institutions as of March 18, 2025. 

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