UK publishers warn against delays in AI copyright reforms

Publishers and creative industry representatives in the United Kingdom have raised concerns over potential delays in reforming copyright laws in response to artificial intelligence, The Guardian reported. The government has proposed conducting an economic impact assessment within 12 months of passing the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill. However, critics say this could push any legislative action to the end of the current parliamentary term in 2029.

Owen Meredith, CEO of the News Media Association—which includes members like The Guardian—warned that the pace of government action lags behind rapid global developments. He said any meaningful change to copyright law may not occur until the final years of this Parliament.

Baroness Beeban Kidron, a filmmaker and a prominent advocate for children’s digital rights, also criticized the proposed timeline, calling a four-year wait “completely inadequate.” She warned that such a delay could severely harm the UK’s creative industries. The debate highlights growing pressure to balance AI innovation with protection for content creators.