Industry leaders, including Jo Twist, CEO of the BPI, have expressed concerns that the proposed copyright exception could complicate licensing and increase legal uncertainty for local creators.

The outcome of this debate is critical for the future of creativity in the digital age, as it will shape the UK's position within the global creative economy.

Publishers and campaigners have labeled the government's plan as 'untested' and a giveaway of the £126 billion creative sector.

A report from CISAC warns that generative AI could negatively impact songwriters and composers by up to £10 billion over the next decade, underscoring the urgency of the consultation.

The UK government has initiated a consultation on copyright laws that affect creative industries and AI developers, with the goal of clarifying the use of copyrighted materials in AI model training.

This proposal aims to enhance creators' control over their works, providing better licensing opportunities and potential monetization.

Over 37,300 individuals, including prominent artists like Julianne Moore and Kate Bush, have signed a petition opposing the unlicensed use of creative works for AI training, highlighting concerns over the impact on artists' livelihoods.

Critics, including composer Ed Newton-Rex, have condemned the proposed opt-out system as 'totally unfair,' arguing it threatens creators' livelihoods and benefits AI companies at their expense.

Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Peter Kyle, has stated that confusion surrounding copyright law is hindering progress in both the AI and creative sectors.

Opponents of the opt-out system argue that it disproportionately favors large tech companies, undermining the protection of creators' intellectual property and leaving smaller creators vulnerable.

The implications of generative AI are particularly concerning for industries such as visual arts, music, film, and video games, which rely heavily on skilled human production.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has expressed determination to find a workable solution that protects creators while fostering technological advancements in AI.