THE SHORT VERSION
Three-quarters of all responses to 2023 consultation were machine-generated. It is thought to be first coordinated attempt to use artificial intelligence to derail health policymaking.
DHSC excluded 90,835 responses from its decision-making. Inherited tobacco and vapes bill and passed it into law in 2024.
DHSC says its "robust controls" identified the attempt to influence consultation. The consultation helped inform landmark action to create a smoke free generation.
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