Source · Select Committees · Culture, Media and Sport Committee
Recommendation 3
3
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 39
Government's AI working group failed to produce IP code, favouring AI developers.
Conclusion
Despite our previous recommendations that the Government win back the trust of creators regarding their concerns over AI, its working group has not been able to bring forward a code of practice on AI and intellectual property. Although the Government asserted that it could consider legislating were agreement not reached, it has not indicated that it will do so. It is unlikely that simply conducting a further period of engagement with the sectors, with no clarity over its overall aims, will have any meaningful effect. We are concerned that the status quo simply favours AI developers, given creators’ concerns that their IP is already being used in AI development without licence or any practical means of recourse.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the Committee's concerns regarding the lack of a code of practice on AI and IP and the status quo favoring AI developers. They state that DCMS, DSIT, and IPO are working closely to understand issues, engaging with stakeholders, and intend to proceed with urgency to announce next steps soon, recognizing potential legislative needs.
Paragraph Reference:
39
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The government recognises the Committee’s concerns about lack of action in this area. We believe both in human-centred creativity and the potential of AI to unlock new creative frontiers and agree that all will benefit from greater clarity over copyright. Finding a balance between these concerns is a complex matter. That is why the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), and the IPO are working closely together to understand the issues, opportunities and concerns in detail. Ministers and officials continue to engage with stakeholders from the creative industries and AI sector, as well as international counterparts who face the same issues. Both the creative and AI sectors are vital to our mission to grow the UK economy, and we are committed to finding the right balance between fostering innovation and ensuring protection for creators and investment in the creative industries. As the Committee notes, any resolution to these issues may require legislation, as well as technological solutions, agreed standards and international cooperation. The government is fully aware that the present situation is less than ideal for both AI developers and creators as a lack of legal certainty can impact confidence levels. We intend to proceed carefully but with a degree of urgency in this area and hope to announce next steps soon. We look forward to updating the Committee on this issue.