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2mo ago

UK Government Faces Backlash Over Proposed AI Copyright Changes

Artists and creatives unite against plans to allow AI companies to use copyrighted material without explicit consent, prompting the government to reconsider.

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A host of artists and musicians have called on the prime minister to prevent AI from stealing copyright
Emails between Meta employees suggests concerns about pirated works were escalated to the chief executive Mark Zuckerberg
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Overview

  • The UK government is reviewing a proposal to allow AI developers to train models on copyrighted materials without requiring prior permission, following a consultation that ended this week.
  • Prominent artists, including Sir Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, and Dua Lipa, have criticized the proposal, warning it could harm the creative industries and devalue intellectual property rights.
  • Critics argue the proposed opt-out system is impractical and places an undue burden on creators to monitor and protect their works from unauthorized use by AI companies.
  • The government claims the changes are necessary to boost the AI sector and economic growth but has faced mounting opposition from cultural figures, industry leaders, and political voices.
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signaled openness to revisiting the proposal, emphasizing the importance of balancing AI innovation with the protection of the UK's creative sector.