Story perspectives

UK Government's AI Data Plans Spark Outcry from Artists

3/7/2026

Center

UK Government's AI Copyright

The UK government considers a 'commercial research exception' to let data from newspapers and artists be used for AI.
This would enable data scraping without prior permission, drawing backlash from media lobbyists.
Artists, including Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, oppose an opt-out proposal.
A House of Lords report urged the government to reject these plans and favor licensing-first rules.
The government aims for a balanced copyright regime.

Right

Ministers Embrace AI

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford used artificial intelligence (AI) to draft a speech for American investors, and she refined it with specific requests.
New Zealand Minister Simon Court said AI assists policy-related tasks by generating summaries and drafting notes.
Many New Zealand ministers have not engaged with AI extensively, and some have refused to release chat logs.
Newsroom has filed complaints seeking transparency under the Official Information Act.

1 of 2

UK Government's AI Copyright

The UK government considers a 'commercial research exception' to let data from newspapers and artists be used for AI.
This would enable data scraping without prior permission, drawing backlash from media lobbyists.
Artists, including Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, oppose an opt-out proposal.
A House of Lords report urged the government to reject these plans and favor licensing-first rules.
The government aims for a balanced copyright regime.

1 / 2