A significant majority of respondents to a UK government consultation have backed artists and creators in their fight against AI companies using copyrighted material without consent. The overwhelming response signals a potential shift in policy, favouring stronger copyright protections over a proposed opt-out system that was widely unpopular.
Key Takeaways
- Ninety-five percent of over 10,000 respondents called for strengthened copyright law or no changes, demanding licensing for AI training data.
- Only 3% supported the government's initial proposal for artists to actively opt out of AI data scraping.
- The government has acknowledged the lack of consensus and promised policy proposals by March 2026.
Artists Unite Against AI Data Mining
Prominent figures in the music industry, including Elton John, Dua Lipa, Sam Fender, Kate Bush, and The Pet Shop Boys, have been at the forefront of a campaign to protect their work from being used to train artificial intelligence models without permission or compensation. This movement gained substantial momentum following the government's consultation on copyright and AI.
The consultation revealed a stark divide between the interests of creators and those of tech companies. While the government's initial preference leaned towards an 'active opt-out' system – placing the burden on artists to prevent their work from being used – this approach was met with widespread opposition.
Overwhelming Public Support for Creators
Out of more than 10,000 individuals and entities who participated in the consultation, a staggering 95% advocated for either strengthening existing copyright laws or maintaining the status quo, insisting on licensing agreements for any use of creative works by AI. In sharp contrast, a mere 3% endorsed the government's proposed opt-out mechanism.
This strong public mandate has led to the government dropping its initial preferred option. Campaigners have expressed concerns that the government has been overly influenced by the interests of US tech giants, some of whom, like former US President Donald Trump, have publicly advocated for unfettered access to copyrighted material for AI development.
Government's Next Steps
Liz Kendall, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, informed Parliament that there is "no clear consensus" and that the government will "take the time to get this right." Policy proposals are expected by March 18, 2026. Kendall stated the government's aim is to "support prosperity for all UK citizens, and drive innovation and growth for sectors across the economy, including the creative industries," while also ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of science and technology.
However, those advocating for copyright holders believe the consultation results provide a clear direction. Ed Newton-Rex, a composer and campaigner, urged the minister to "listen to the people and rule out changing copyright law to benefit AI companies." Similarly, Owen Meredith, CEO of the New Media Association, called for an end to the uncertainty and for AI developers to engage in licensing agreements with UK creators.
A Clear Mandate for Fair Compensation
The overwhelming response from the public underscores a strong desire for AI companies to compensate creators for the use of their work. The campaign has highlighted the economic and cultural value of creative industries, emphasizing that their contributions should be respected and protected in the age of AI.