UK Government Pulls Back On AI‑Copyright Reform After High‑Profile Backlash

UK Government Pulls Back on AI‑Copyright Reform After High‑Profile Backlash The UK government has formally stepped back from its previously signalled position on reforming copyright law in relation to artificial intelligence (AI) after intense opposition from creators, including major artists such as Dua Lipa and Sir Elton John, who warned that the policy would undermine artists’

The government had been considering changes to UK copyright law intended to create a legal framework permitting AI companies to use copyrighted works to train large AI models—with creators able to “opt out” if they chose. But widespread criticism from the creative sector and public figures forced ministers to reconsider. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the government “no longer has a preferred option” for how to proceed with copyright reform, signaling a pause to take more time and consult further after “listening” to stakeholder

Rather than pushing ahead with the opt‑out approach, the government will now:

• Re‑evaluate options for balancing copyright protection and AI development.
• Consider strengthening existing copyright laws, including licensing systems that would require AI firms to obtain permission or pay for use of copyrighted content.
• Explore additional measures such as labeling AI‑generated content, improving transparency, and protecting individuals from unauthorized use of likenesses or deepfakes.

Kendall emphasized that taking time to get the policy right is necessary to ensure creators are fairly treated while supporting innovation. The proposal formed part of a broader government consultation on copyright and artificial intelligence, which sought to reconcile the legal uncertainties created by AI training needs with the rights of content creators. The consultation outlined several options, from leaving the law unchanged, strengthening licensing requirements, to allowing broad exceptions for AI data mining with rights reservation.

Initial economic impact assessments and responses to the consultation revealed divergent views: many creators strongly preferred licensing‑based approaches, while some tech groups favoured broader exceptions to spur innovation and keep the UK competitive in AI development.

• Creative organisations celebrated what they described as a major victory in safeguarding artists’ control over their works.
• However, some critics argue that without concrete legislative proposals, uncertainty remains and creative rights could still be diluted in future policy rounds.
• The government plans further engagement with creators, tech companies, unions, academics and other stakeholders as part of ongoing efforts to shape a balanced copyright and AI policy.