The UK Government is consulting on proposed changes to copyright laws that could allow AI companies to use music creators’ work without permission or payment.
The consultation seeks feedback on 4 options:
- Option 0: Copyright and related laws remain as they are
- Option 1: Strengthen copyright requiring licensing in all cases
- Option 2: A broad data mining exception
- Option 3: A data mining exception which allows right holders to reserve their rights, supported by transparency measures
The Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) supports UK Music’s calls for creators and industry professionals to respond to the consultation and demand stronger protections. Prominent artists including Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Elton John have warned that unregulated AI use could devastate the music industry, stripping artists of control over their work.
UK Music and industry leaders are backing “Option 1”, which requires AI developers to obtain licenses and ask for permission before using music. This approach ensures:
- Creators and publishers can negotiate fair deals with AI developers.
- Transparency on how music is used in AI training.
- Protection against AI-generated content that undermines creators’ work.
Significant concerns have been raised around the proposed text and data mining (TDM) exception “Option 3”, which will threaten the livelihoods of thousands of creators and weaken the value of their work.
The SMIA urges everyone to take action – backing “Option 1” – before the consultation closes on Tuesday 25 February 2025.
To support you, UK Music has prepared a Cribsheet — a simple guide to help you complete the consultation.
You can access the consultation here.
Why This Matters:
- Unpaid Exploitation: The proposed TDM exemption (Option 3) would allow AI companies to use creators’ work without paying or licensing.
- Loss of Control: AI systems trained on music could produce works that compete directly with creators, reducing their income.
- Risk to the Industry: The £7.6 billion UK music industry and over 216,000 jobs could be put at risk without proper protections.
- House of Lords Support: A recent vote in the House of Lords backed stronger protections for creators, but public responses to the consultation are essential.
How You Can Help:
- Complete the Consultation Using UK Music’s Cribsheet: It breaks down the key questions and helps you complete the consultation easily.
- Write to Your MP: Use the email template from CRAIC (Creative Rights in AI Coalition) to tell your MP why protecting creators’ rights matters.
- Spread Awareness: Share this campaign with your network across social media. You can share the SMIA Instagram Post here.
The future of music creation is at stake. Make your voice heard and help safeguard the rights of creators.
Submit your response by Tuesday 25 February 2025.
For more information from UK Music on the AI and Copyright Consultation click here.