The UK government has proposed allowing AI companies to train their models on copyrighted works through a new exemption, sparking strong opposition from creative rights advocates and industry professionals.

Under the proposed system, tech companies could freely use copyrighted material for AI training unless rights holders explicitly opt out. The creative sector, which contributes £126 billion annually to the UK economy, has raised serious concerns about this approach.

Key objections from industry leaders:

• Publishers Association CEO Dan Conway calls the proposal "entirely untested and unevidenced"
• Crossbencher Beeban Kidron expresses strong disappointment in the government's approach
• News Media Association CEO Owen Meredith advocates for fair remuneration and control over content usage

Data protection minister Chris Bryant MP defends the proposal as a "win-win" situation, suggesting it could create new revenue streams for creators through content licensing.

The consultation will also explore implementing a "right of personality" similar to US regulations, protecting celebrities from unauthorized AI replication of their voice or likeness.

Industry experts argue that the proposed opt-out system would primarily benefit large rights holders while leaving smaller creators vulnerable to exploitation. They advocate for strengthening existing copyright frameworks rather than creating new exemptions.

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