Britain Changes Stance on AI Training Using Copyrighted Music
“The Government no longer has a preferred option”
The UK Government has reversed its stance on artificial intelligence companies training their models on copyrighted material without permission from rightsholders or artists.
Why it matters:
The Government had previously been considering a “commercial research exception,” which would have allowed AI developers to use copyrighted material for training purposes without seeking permission.
They would only have needed to secure licenses if bringing any resulting products to market.
This was met with significant resistance from the creative industries, fearing it would shift the balance of power in favor of AI developers and reduce rightsholders’ negotiating power.
Moving forward:
In a statement by Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, the minister wrote: “We have listened. We have engaged extensively with creatives, AI firms, industry bodies, unions, academics and AI adopters, and that engagement has shaped our approach.”
She added: “We can confirm today that the Government no longer has a preferred option.”
Next steps:
The Government has identified four areas of focus as it continues to establish its AI policy in regards copyright and the creative industries.
They include preventing misuse of AI-generated likenesses; labeling AI-generated content; publishing a review of the mechanisms available for creators to control their works online; and whether the Government can support independent and smaller creative organizations’ ability to license their content.
The response:
Tom Kiehl, CEO of UK Music, which represents musicians, record labels, artist managers and publishers: “We support the Government’s decision to push the reset button on the debate on AI and copyright… The 220,000 people in our sector which generates £8 billion ($10.6 billion) for the UK economy should be entitled to work and earn a living without the constant fear that the fruits of their labor could effectively be taken by AI firms without payment or permission.”
👋 Disclosures & Transparency Block
This story was written with information from Music Business Worldwide and Liz Kendall’s statement.
We covered it because it’s news of the UK Government’s stance on AI training on copyrighted music.
