UK culture secretary pledges creative sector roundtables on AI and copyright after data bill passes

UK Culture Secretary Commits to Collaborative AI Legislation with Creative Industries

UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has announced plans to engage directly with the creative industries through a series of roundtables aimed at shaping future AI legislation. This initiative will take place after the passage of the current data bill in Parliament.

Speaking at the Deloitte Enders Media Telecoms 2025 and Beyond conference, Nandy emphasized the importance of balancing the needs of creators and tech companies. “Creators are the innovators, fundamental to our economic success in the future,” she said.

A Joint Approach to AI and Copyright

Nandy, working alongside Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, highlighted the need for enforceable legislation concerning AI and copyright. She stressed that the drafting process must include both creatives and technologists to ensure all perspectives are considered.

The current data bill, debated in the House of Lords, proposes allowing tech companies to use copyrighted material to train AI models. However, the Lords are pushing for stronger protections for artists. For the bill to become law, both the House of Commons and House of Lords must agree on the same text.

Industry Voices and Government Response

Baroness Beeban Kidron, a crossbench peer and film director, is among those opposing the government's current plans. In response, Nandy assured the creative sector that the government has no fixed position yet and is open to input. “We have heard you loud and clear that what works for one part of the creative industries doesn’t work for another,” she said.

The upcoming roundtables will include representatives from across the creative industries, providing a platform for diverse voices. The government aims to build transparency and trust through this collaborative process.

Looking Ahead: Creative Industries Sector Plan

Nandy also previewed the forthcoming Creative Industries Sector Plan, due later this month. This plan intends to accelerate growth across the UK’s creative hubs, supporting film and TV clusters from Birmingham to Belfast and tapping into regional potential.

Additionally, Nandy expressed strong support for the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA), an industry-funded body that launched its first standards framework earlier this year. She praised the BBC’s recent decision to only commission companies adhering to CIISA standards, calling it “what leadership looks like.”

What Creatives Should Watch For

• Active involvement opportunities in AI legislation consultations following the data bill’s approval.
• Potential changes to copyright law affecting how AI can use creative works.
• Support mechanisms and growth initiatives outlined in the upcoming Creative Industries Sector Plan.
• Adoption of CIISA standards as a new benchmark for industry practices.

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