Ministers have reversed their stance on supporting proposals that could have facilitated unauthorized use of copyrighted content by tech companies employing artificial intelligence (AI).

Initially, the government had endorsed a controversial plan allowing high-tech firms to train their AI systems using various media like newspaper articles, songs, and videos without obtaining permission or making payments. This move prompted UK national newspapers to unite against the proposal by prominently featuring “Make It Fair” on their front pages and websites.

Prominent figures in the fields of news, music, and art strongly criticized the plan, highlighting its potential threat to the UK’s creative sector.

Technology secretary Liz Kendall announced a shift in government position, stating that there is no longer a favored approach regarding copyright law amendments. This change follows widespread opposition to the previous support for granting big tech firms access to content unless copyright holders actively objected.

In a significant reversal, Kendall emphasized the government’s belief in fair compensation for creators, acknowledging the importance of equitable remuneration. Celebrities such as Sir Elton John denounced the proposed changes as “thievery on a high scale,” expressing strong disapproval of the government’s initial stance.

Other notable figures, including Dua Lipa, Julianna Moore, Björn Ulvaeus from Abba, and Thom Yorke from Radiohead, also voiced their objections.

The government’s reconsideration was met with approval from creatives nationwide, with Equity, the actors’ trade union, welcoming the decision as a step away from jeopardizing the UK’s creative industries for the benefit of US tech corporations.

Various industry leaders, such as UK Music’s Tom Kiehl and the Publishers Association’s Mandy Hill, commended the government’s reversal, emphasizing the importance of respecting existing copyright laws and the need for permission to use copyrighted material in AI development.

Owen Meredith, the chief executive of the News Media Association, applauded the government’s responsiveness to concerns raised during the “Make It Fair” campaign, urging further action to address potentially harmful exceptions related to AI development and research.

Overall, the government’s shift in position reflects a commitment to protecting the rights and interests of content creators and upholding the integrity of the UK’s creative industries.