Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
,
Next-Generation Technologies & Secure Development
,
Standards, Regulations & Compliance
New Working Group Initiated Following Two Unsuccessful Attempts to Address AI Training Challenges
(Image: Shutterstock)
The U.K. government has commenced a new round of conversations involving creative industry stakeholders and representatives from the artificial intelligence sector regarding the usage of copyrighted works for AI training purposes. This initiative follows two previous failed negotiations aimed at resolving related conflict.
See Also:
New OnDemand Webinar | Overcoming Top Data Compliance Challenges in an Era of Digital Modernization
On Wednesday, the Technology and Culture Secretaries announced the formation of an eight-member working group that features the Publishers and News Media Association alongside Sony Music Entertainment, in addition to major tech firms such as OpenAI, Meta, and Amazon.
The working group intends to devise “workable solutions” that enable the usage of copyrighted material for AI without infringing upon the rights of creators. Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle commented on the initiative, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach that benefits both creative workers and AI innovators.
Initial discussions took place on Wednesday, focusing on essential issues such as enhancing transparency regarding how copyright holders’ content is used by companies, as well as clarifying how that content is acquired.
The consultation also examined ways to improve access to high-quality data for AI developers, a move designed to foster innovation and support the objectives outlined in the government’s Plan for Change.
This latest effort represents the third attempt by the U.K. government to facilitate the use of copyrighted content for AI model training. Current legal frameworks pose significant restrictions on the commercial use of copyrighted material, with AI firms contending that such regulations hinder their ability to secure necessary training datasets.
At the same time, a consortium of U.K. creative rights holders, which includes musicians and print media, is advocating for the preservation of existing copyright protections to ensure that artists are appropriately compensated for their intellectual property.
Cultivating a sustainable environment for both AI development and creative industries has emerged as a governmental priority. With AI technology projected to contribute an estimated 10% increase to the U.K.’s GDP by 2030, this initiative underlines the government’s commitment to fostering an innovative landscape.
The government’s January AI Opportunities Action Plan aims to enhance the U.K.’s AI capabilities and promote broader cross-sector adoption of this technology. A balanced approach introduced last year, which calls for public input on allowing copyrighted material to be included in AI training datasets by default, is under ongoing review following significant public feedback.
Intellectual property law expert Gill Dennis from the firm Pinsent Masons pointed out that previous working groups have struggled to reach agreements. He advised that the government must navigate these discussions carefully to avoid repeating past failures.
