Elton John: government ‘absolute losers’ over AI copyright plans

Sir Elton John has described the government as “absolute losers” over plans to exempt firms training artificial intelligence from copyright laws.

In an interview with the BBC, John added that the government would be “committing theft, thievery on a high scale” if it proceeds with plans to allow AI firms to use artists’ content without paying.

The musician warned the government was on course to “rob young people of their legacy and their income” and said Prime Minister Keir Starmer needs to “wise up”, while branding Technology Secretary Peter Kyle as “a bit of a moron”.

His comments follow the government’s decision to reject proposals from the House of Lords that would have forced AI companies to disclose what material they were using to develop their programmes.

Last week, The House of Lords voted by a 147 majority to amend the Data (Use and Access) Bill to add transparency requirements. But MPs in the House of Commons voted to reject the proposal last Wednesday, meaning the bill will go between the two houses until an agreement is reached.

John also told the BBC that if the government does not change its plans he will be ready to take ministers to court, adding that “we’ll fight it all the way”.

A government spokesperson told the broadcaster that ministers want the UK’s creative industries and AI companies to “flourish”, adding that it is consulting on a package of measures that it hopes will work for both sectors.

The spokesperson added that it is “equally important that we put in the groundwork now as we consider the next steps”.

“That is why we have committed to publishing a report and economic impact assessment – exploring the broad range of issues and options on all sides of the debate,” they said.