Imagination researchers’ responded to the UK Government’s consultation on artificial intelligence and copyright. This consultation, which closed on February 25, 2025, was a valuable opportunity to shape the dialogue surrounding the role of AI in creative industries and small-medium enterprises (SMEs).
Our response builds on the efforts of our AI working group and a range of research projects exploring SMEs’ and creative industries’ perceptions and concerns related to AI in the past few years. Central to our response is the belief that right holders should remain a top priority in navigating the complex intersection of innovation and copyright protection.
We strongly advocate for the adoption of an alternative opt-in model to empower right holders and secure the future of creative industries. Technological advances are undeniably crucial for growth in the UK, but creative industries are the backbone of our economy and innovation. Without the originality and ingenuity of creators, there would be no content for AI models to utilise. Therefore, right holders’ needs must be prioritised to ensure the sustainability of this vital sector.
We have documented our insights and findings in a comprehensive response, which is now publicly available. You can access it here.
Kim Snooks
Naomi Jacobs
Joe Lindley
Yekta Bakırlıoğlu
Paul Coulton
Louise Mullagh
Glynn Stockton
Roger Whitham