The UK government has suffered a second major defeat in the House of Lords over its proposed Data Bill. Peers voted overwhelmingly to back an amendment aimed at changing the law to protect creatives from AI systems that scrape copyrighted material without consent.
Baroness Kidron, a filmmaker and digital rights advocate, led the charge. She argued that AI firms were exploiting artists and receiving silent approval from ministers swayed by “Silicon Valley whisperings.” Her amendment would force tech companies to disclose what content they use and obtain permission before training their models on copyrighted work.
During the debate, peers from across political lines backed Kidron’s push. Labour’s Lord Brennan warned of a dangerous double standard being created for AI companies. He reminded the chamber that Britain once led the world in setting copyright standards.
Lord Knight called for action to protect creatives from AI while still exploring its potential. Meanwhile, Lord Berkeley described the current situation as “burglary” and warned of the industry’s collapse without urgent reforms.
High-profile figures outside Parliament have joined the outcry. Sir Elton John recently labelled the government’s AI approach “criminal” and accused it of enabling theft. Musicians including Paul McCartney and Kate Bush have echoed his concerns.
Kidron’s amendment seeks to restore clarity. She said the government must make it clear that “UK copyright law is the law of the land.” Without change, she warned, the current bill would remain a “political gesture” that enables widespread abuse.
Baroness Jones, the government’s Technology Minister, urged peers not to overturn MPs’ decision. She argued that rushing ahead would create “piecemeal” laws and confusion. She also denied claims that the government had been influenced by US tech giants.
However, Kidron insisted her proposal respected Commons primacy and addressed only the minimum necessary to protect creatives from AI. Her view won overwhelming support—287 peers backed the amendment, while only 118 opposed it.
The amended bill will now return to the House of Commons. The future of copyright in the age of artificial intelligence is set to remain a central political battleground.
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