Artists Protest Government Plans to Allow AI Use of Copyrighted Work Without Payment
Opposite the UK Parliament, artists gathered to protest government proposals that would let artificial intelligence (AI) companies train their models on copyrighted material without compensating the creators. This issue has sparked significant opposition from the creative community and has led to ongoing parliamentary debate.
Peers Vote Against Government Over AI Copyright Proposals
In the House of Lords, peers delivered a fifth defeat to the government by voting 221 to 116 in favor of an amendment requiring AI companies to be transparent about the copyrighted material they use to train their models. This move challenges the government's plan to allow AI firms to operate under an opt-out system, where copyrighted works can be used unless owners explicitly object.
Elton John, speaking at an awards event after the vote, emphasized that copyright protection is an “existential issue” for artists. He urged the government to uphold its promise to support creative industries, declaring, “We will not back down and we will not quietly go away. This is just the beginning.”
Ongoing Standoff Over Data Bill
The vote extends a prolonged standoff between the House of Commons and the Lords regarding the data bill, which has become a battleground for opposition to the proposed copyright reforms. Cross-bench peer and film director Beeban Kidron has led the resistance, with her amendments repeatedly supported by the upper chamber.
The data bill now risks being shelved unless the Commons either accepts the Kidron amendment or proposes an alternative solution. Maggie Jones, Lords minister for the digital economy and online safety, warned peers that backing the amendment could cause the entire bill to collapse, despite the bill’s inclusion of other key measures like combating sexually explicit deepfake images.
Calls for Meaningful Copyright Protection
Kidron urged ministers to implement concrete steps to subject AI companies to copyright rules, stating that the current situation amounts to “widespread theft.” She criticized the government for failing to provide effective protection for creatives’ work.
Several peers disagreed with the government’s characterization of the Lords’ actions as unprecedented, pointing out that the government itself risks breaking precedent by refusing to compromise. Tim Clement-Jones, the Liberal Democrat spokesperson for the digital economy, expressed his party’s firm support for Kidron’s amendment.
Legislative Impasse and Possible Consequences
The Lords’ insistence puts the data bill into “double insistence” territory, meaning the two houses cannot reach agreement. According to parliamentary convention, this could cause the bill to fall unless the government accepts the amendment or offers a viable alternative. While rare, such outcomes are not without precedent.
If the impasse continues, ministers might resort to the Parliament Act to pass the bill in the next session, which would delay the legislation significantly.
Government Concessions and Responses
In an attempt to avoid further defeats, the government offered to accelerate the publication of technical reports on AI and copyright regulation from 12 months to nine. Minister Maggie Jones emphasized the bill’s benefits, including an expected £10 billion economic boost and improved online safety measures.
Kidron, however, remained critical, highlighting the government’s failure to listen to the Lords, the creative sector, and even its own backbenchers.
Industry and Creator Opposition
The government’s opt-out proposal has drawn sharp criticism from creators and publishers, including high-profile figures like Paul McCartney and Tom Stoppard. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle expressed regret over launching a consultation with the opt-out system as the preferred option.
Campaigners believe there is resistance within Downing Street to making more substantial concessions on copyright protections for creatives.
For government professionals interested in AI developments and copyright law, staying informed about this evolving issue is crucial. Understanding these debates can guide policy decisions that balance innovation with protecting creators’ rights.
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