In a significant shift, the UK government has withdrawn its proposal to let AI firms train models on copyrighted books, music, and art without permission. The plan, which would have been part of a forthcoming data bill, had drawn fierce criticism from the creative community.

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall stated the government had "listened" to the outcry. Officials now say they have "no longer have a preferred option" on the matter, effectively pausing the controversial legislation. The earlier framework would have granted companies like Google and OpenAI broad access to copyrighted works, offering creators only a limited opt-out mechanism.

For artists, the reversal is a clear victory. "This is a major victory," said Tom Kiehl of UK Music, pledging further collaboration with ministers. The initial proposal had mobilized prominent figures, including Sir Elton John, Dua Lipa, and Sir Paul McCartney. In a 2025 interview, McCartney warned of an industry that could "rip off" artists, leaving young songwriters with nothing for their work while "the money's going somewhere."

The government now says it will take "the time needed" to develop a new approach. In a report, it committed to not reforming copyright law until it can both protect the UK's creative sector and harness AI's economic potential. Any future system, it said, must ensure rights holders are fairly paid and protected from unfair use, while also allowing AI developers to access the quality data they need. The path forward remains undefined, but the power of a unified artistic front has been firmly demonstrated.

Source: Engadget