A campaign spearheaded by pop icons like Elton John and Dua Lipa, aimed at preventing the unauthorized use of artists’ works for training AI models, has gained significant traction after nearly all participants urged the government to take action. A consultation backed their claims.
Out of over 10,000 individuals who voiced their opinions on safeguarding music, literature, films, and other creative works from piracy by technology firms, 95% advocated for stronger copyright protections, strict licensing requirements, or no modifications to existing copyright law.
In stark contrast, only 3% of respondents endorsed the government’s initial, tech-firm-friendly proposal that would compel artists and copyright owners to actively opt out of having their content utilized by data-hungry AI systems.
In response to backlash, ministers later stepped back from their proposal. Notable artists against any reduction of their copyrights include Sam Fender, Kate Bush, and the Pet Shop Boys. Activists advocating for copyright protection for artists expressed concerns that ministers are overly focused on the interests of American tech companies.
US President Donald Trump is reported to have stated: “We must allow AI to utilize it.” He pointed out that we can gather knowledge without complicated contract negotiations, cautioning international governments “not to impose rules and regulations that make it… unfeasible” for AI firms to operate.
Last month, Paul McCartney intensified his copyright efforts by releasing a new recording that is largely silent, apart from some studio sounds, as a protest against copyright infringement by AI companies.
On Monday, Liz Kendall, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, informed Parliament that there was “no clear consensus” on the matter and that the government would “take its time to address this issue,” promising policy proposals by March 18, 2026.
“Our approach to copyright and AI must empower all British citizens to thrive and foster innovation and growth in various sectors of the economy, including creative industries,” she remarked. “This means keeping the UK at the forefront of science and technology, enabling our people to reap the rewards of significant progress, groundbreaking innovations, and enhanced prosperity.
“It also entails ongoing support for our creative industries, which contribute immensely to the economy, shape our national identity, and secure our unique position on the global stage.”
However, copyright holder advocates claimed the response to the consultation clarified the government’s future direction.
“This is an overwhelming demonstration of support for the logical stance that AI companies should compensate for the resources they consume, entirely rejecting the government’s ‘preferred option’ of granting AI firms unconditional access to the works of British creatives,” stated composer and copyright equity advocate Ed Newton-Rex.
“Liz Kendall must heed the people’s voice and rule out amending copyright laws to favor AI corporations.”
Owen Meredith, CEO of the New Media Association, urged Kendall to eliminate new copyright exceptions and to resolve the uncertainty created by “this prolonged process”.
“This sends a clear message to AI developers that they ought to establish licensing agreements with UK media and creative rights holders. This strengthens the marketplace by encouraging investment in high-quality content, which is the most crucial factor in building safe and reliable AI models.”
Last month, Kendall expressed a desire to “reset” the discussion, acknowledging the artists’ demands to prevent their copyrighted works from being scraped for free by AI companies. “It’s only natural for individuals to seek compensation for their creations,” she stated, “and we need to find methods for both sectors to expand and prosper in the future.”
Source: www.theguardian.com
