The Independent Press Standards Organisation has been urged to develop industry standards on the use of artificial intelligence in journalism.

An external review into the press watchdog’s workings by former senior civil servant Sir Bill Jeffrey has made the recommendation after warning of “risks” being posed by the use of AI-driven systems in reporting.

HTFP reported earlier this week how regional publisher Newsquest is creating a new role with a specific remit to expand the use of AI technology.

Rival group Reach plc has also experimented with robot reporting in recent weeks.

Sir Bill, pictured, wrote in his review: “The traditional press publications which are regulated by IPSO may be the last to be touched by these developments, at least in their most advanced form, but it would be surprising if they were untouched by them.

“Also, their selling point, in an increasingly diverse news market, is the fact that their standards, including standards of accuracy, are set by the Editors’ Code, and regulated by IPSO.

“Indeed, [rival watchdog] Impress has, at the time of finalising this report, launched its new Standards Code and included a change to its accuracy requirements – making specific reference to AI-generated content.

“All of this suggests to me that, between them, IPSO, the Editors’ Code Committee and the industry would do well to develop industry standards on the use of AI.  IPSO should position themselves to contribute to that debate.”

Sit Bill’s review also found the watchdog has “influenced the industry for the better”.

IPSO chief executive Charlotte Dewar said: “We’re extremely grateful to Sir Bill for his thorough work undertaking this review.

“It makes clear the breadth of IPSO’s work as a regulator and provides useful detail on both complaints handling and our wider work to drive up standards.

“It also offers much for us to consider on how we can further increase our transparency and accessibility as a regulator, in line with our recently published five-year vision.”

In a document setting out its corporate strategy for the next five years drawn up in March, IPSO vowed to adapt to “technological and financial changes” facing journalism.

It said:  “This growth in opportunities for publishers to create new services at speed may increase the pressure on IPSO and our processes. IPSO is well placed to meet this challenge.”