I recently questioned the Government on how it intends to address concerns from the UK’s creative industries regarding the use of their content by AI companies. Specifically, I asked whether this issue would be resolved through the Data Bill or by other means. The Minister confirmed that a consultation is ongoing and will conclude on 25 February, after which the Government will review responses to determine the next steps.
The consultation is a crucial opportunity to clarify how AI models interact with copyright law. Currently, concerns centre on AI systems using creative works without permission or compensation. The proposed opt-out system assumes that content can be used unless the creator explicitly objects, raising questions about transparency, enforcement, and fair remuneration. The Creative Rights in AI Coalition has highlighted that UK copyright law does not permit text and data mining for commercial purposes without a license, making this an issue of significant concern for the sector.
The Government is considering a new copyright exemption for AI developers alongside a rights reservation model. While this seeks to balance the interests of AI developers and content creators, the approach has prompted debate about its potential impact on the creative industries. Ensuring fair protections for creators while enabling technological progress remains a key challenge.
As the consultation progresses, it is vital that any legislative changes safeguard the rights of creative professionals.
