The UK is asking for public input on AI training and copyright laws by proposing options like free use of copyrighted work, opt-out rights for creators, or stricter licensing. Creators fear AI companies could exploit their work unfairly, sparking debates about balancing innovation with protecting creative rights. Feedback’s due by Feb next year.
The UK government is stirring up the AI and creative industries with a new consultation aimed at rethinking copyright laws. Launched on December 17, this initiative invites public feedback on how AI models should handle copyrighted materials. With responses open until February 25, 2025, the debate is heating up.
Peter Kyle, the UK’s Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, admitted that the current framework isn’t doing enough for creators or AI developers to thrive globally. To fix this, the government has floated four policy options: allowing AI to use copyrighted work freely, giving creators the right to opt-out, tightening copyright laws to require licenses for AI training, or tweaking the current framework.
Not everyone’s a fan. Critics like Ed Newton-Rex, British composer and CEO of Fairly Trained, think some options give AI companies way too much power. He argues they could exploit creators’ work without permission. Owen Meredith, CEO of the News Media Association, says the focus should be on better enforcement of existing laws instead of risking new ones
As AI and copyright collide, the question is clear: how can we boost innovation without leaving creators in the dust? Now’s your chance to weigh in.
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