Former UK Deputy Prime Minister and ex-Meta executive Sir Nick Clegg has sparked significant debate by asserting that requiring tech companies to obtain permission from artists before using copyrighted material to train AI models is “unworkable” and could “kill” the UK’s AI industry. (The Times)
Speaking at the Charleston Festival to promote his upcoming book “How to Save the Internet,” Clegg acknowledged that while it’s “not unreasonable” for artists to desire an opt-out mechanism, the vast scale of data involved in AI training renders proactive consent impractical. (The Times)
This stance has drawn criticism from prominent figures in the creative industry, including Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, who argue that using their work without explicit permission constitutes theft and undermines their livelihoods. (Breitbart)
The UK Parliament recently rejected a proposed amendment to the Data (Use and Access) Bill that would have mandated AI companies to disclose which copyrighted materials they use during model training. The bill is set to return to the House of Lords in June, where further debate is anticipated. (The Verge)
As the UK navigates the balance between fostering AI innovation and protecting creators’ rights, the outcome of this legislative process will be closely watched by stakeholders across both sectors.
