A government consultation has shown overwhelming support for stronger copyright protections for artists whose work is used to train artificial intelligence systems.
More than 95% of respondents said copyright law should either be strengthened or left unchanged, rejecting proposals that would make it easier for technology companies to use creative work without permission.
Only 3% supported the government’s original preferred option, which would have required artists and copyright holders to actively opt out of having their work used to train AI models.
The consultation, which received responses from more than 10,000 people, covered how music, books, films and other creative works should be protected from being used without consent by AI companies.
Ministers have since dropped the opt-out proposal following strong opposition from artists and campaigners. High-profile figures who have spoken out include Elton John, Dua Lipa, Kate Bush, Sam Fender and the Pet Shop Boys.
Campaigners say allowing AI companies to use copyrighted material without payment would damage the UK’s creative industries. Some have accused the government of paying too much attention to the interests of large US technology firms.
The issue has also drawn international attention. US president Donald Trump has previously argued that AI companies should be allowed to use copyrighted material freely, warning that strict rules could make it difficult for them to operate.
Last month, former Beatle Paul McCartney joined the campaign by releasing a largely silent recording as a protest against what he described as copyright theft by AI companies.
Liz Kendall, the science, innovation and technology secretary, told parliament there was “no clear consensus” and said the government would take more time before setting out proposals. She said new policy plans would be published by 18 March 2026.
She added that the government wanted to support both technological innovation and the UK’s creative industries, which she said make a major contribution to the economy and national culture.
However, campaigners argue the consultation results are clear. Ed Newton-Rex, a composer and copyright campaigner, said the response showed strong public support for requiring AI companies to pay for the material they use.
Media industry groups have also urged the government to rule out any new copyright exceptions, warning that ongoing uncertainty could harm investment and innovation.
