The U.K. government reversed its stance on allowing artificial-intelligence companies to train models on copyrighted works under an opt-out system, following an outcry from major artists such as Elton John and Dua Lipa. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the government no longer has a preferred approach and will delay changes to copyright law until it is confident reforms will meet economic objectives. The move underscores a deep split between creative industries, which seek licensing and permission-based regimes, and tech groups pressing for clear, innovation-friendly rules. Music and publishing bodies hailed the retreat as a win for rights holders, while industry groups warned that prolonged uncertainty could hobble Britain’s bid to lead the G7 in AI adoption. The government’s impact assessment highlights the sector’s stakes: a world-leading cultural industry and an AI economy growing far faster than the rest of the market.
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