UK Government's Approach to AI and Copyright: A Shift in Policy

The UK technology secretary, Liz Kendall, has expressed support for artists' demands regarding the use of their copyrighted works by artificial intelligence (AI) companies. In a notable departure from her predecessor, Peter Kyle, Kendall emphasized the need for a "reset" in the ongoing debate over intellectual property rights in the context of AI. She acknowledged that "people rightly want to get paid for the work that they do" and highlighted the importance of finding a balance that allows both the creative and AI sectors to thrive.

The Guardian

Kendall's remarks come amidst significant protests from prominent British artists, including Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, and Elton John, against the unauthorized use of their works by AI firms. McCartney's recent release of a silent track serves as a protest against copyright infringements, while Elton John criticized the government for its previous proposals that would permit tech companies to utilize copyrighted material without consent.

The Guardian

The UK government is currently consulting on a new intellectual property framework for AI, which is crucial for the operation of large language models (LLMs) that require extensive training data. Kendall has indicated that the government is engaging with both the creative and AI sectors to address these issues collaboratively. She stated, “We’re going to find a deal that helps us move forward together,” while also recognizing the need for transparency regarding the use of artists' works in AI training.

The Guardian

Despite Kendall's supportive stance, there remains skepticism within the creative community. Beeban Kidron, a film director and advocate for creators' rights, noted that the government has "lost the trust of the entire creative community and the public." She called for immediate action, urging the government to halt public sector contracts with AI companies embroiled in copyright disputes and to ensure transparency about the works used for training AI systems.

The Guardian

An initial report on the government's plans regarding AI and copyright is anticipated by the end of 2025, with a more comprehensive report expected by March 2026. Kendall acknowledged the urgency expressed by creatives, stating, “I understand why many creatives are urging us to act immediately because so much has happened already.” However, she emphasized the necessity of careful deliberation to achieve a solution that benefits both sectors.

The Guardian

• “people rightly want to get paid for the work that they do” — Liz Kendall, Technology Secretary

The Guardian

• “But Lady Kidron said the government had “lost the trust of the entire creative community and the public, who overwhelmingly support the creative industry’s need to receive a fair day’s pay for their work”.” — Beeban Kidron, Film Director

The Guardian

• “But we’ve got to get this right … there’s a lot of detail to work out here, but I believe it is possible to find a way forward that delivers for both because we don’t want to have to choose.” — Liz Kendall, Technology Secretary

The Guardian

The evolving dialogue between the UK government and the creative sector reflects a critical juncture in addressing the implications of AI on copyright, with both sides seeking a sustainable path forward.

The Guardian