Government approaches creative bodies including the PA for input on AI and copyright

The creative industries and media organisations have been approached by the government for their input on growing concerns surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and copyright, with the Publishers Association (PA) among those in the book trade sent the letter by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). 

According to the letter, seen by the Financial Times, executives were told the approach was intended to help “build our understanding of the concerns and interests in recent developments in artificial intelligence”.

The letter acknowledged that AI “has been a subject of significant debate across creative sectors and of significant concern for many”, and sought suggestions on establishing a “robust means of preventing/tackling copyright infringing outputs from those AI models”.

It said the DCMS was “working to ensure that the concerns of creative sectors are being considered in the broader policymaking debate”, and acknowledged that the government is already planning to publish an AI regulation white paper.

The department wrote: “We are not seeking to duplicate that work, and are separately engaged with relevant teams on both. Instead, we want to ensure that we have as comprehensive a picture as possible of the risks and opportunities that AI presents specifically to [the media and creative] sectors.”

The PA has welcomed the approach. Louis Coiffait-Gunn, director of policy and public affairs, told The Bookseller: “We have received the engagement letter from DCMS and are in very close contact with all relevant arms of government on the development of AI regulation, and how it will impact the creative industries and publishing. We’ll be taking part in a cross-industry Whitehall session on the topic later this week and remain closely engaged in the various policy-making processes.”

He continued: “There are many benefits to unlock with new technologies like AI and we must make sure the right business and regulatory conditions are in place to support creators and rights holders through that process. This includes ensuring that intellectual property is fully respected by AI systems when used for training purposes. We look forward to working with the government to encourage a careful and considered approach to AI regulation as we progress.”

A DCMS spokesperson said: "AI creates opportunities to maximise the potential of our creative industries and media sector, but we know it also presents risks. We want to take a balanced approach that helps secure the UK’s position as a world leader in AI, while protecting our thriving creative sectors.

"We are working closely with stakeholders to understand the impact AI has on broadcasters, publishers and creative businesses."