There has been a suggestion that we will eventually have the ability to reply to NPCs with a set of scripted responses to which they will react appropriately. It would certainly improve the involvement with other ships and characters.
So, if you are interdicted by an NPC who asks for cargo you can say "**@#~# you!" and he will open fire. Or say "Ok" and while he waits for the goodies you then say "**@#~# you!" and blow him away.