Overview

• Elton John criticized the UK government’s Data Bill, calling it a 'criminal offence' for enabling AI firms to train on copyrighted works without explicit permission from creators.
• The House of Lords passed amendments requiring transparency and opt-in permissions, but the Commons rejected them in a 297–168 vote on May 14, prolonging the legislative standoff.
• Over 400 artists, including Paul McCartney and Dua Lipa, signed an open letter urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to adopt stronger copyright protections for creators.
• The government argues the reforms could boost the UK economy by £10 billion over a decade but insists no final decisions will be made until consultations and impact assessments are complete.
• Elton John vowed legal action, warning the policy risks 'robbing young people of their legacy and income,' and accused ministers of prioritizing tech firms over the creative sector.