CRA Advocacy in Westminster
Data (Use and Access) Bill
On Wednesday, 7 May, a delegation of 11 parliamentarians, led by Victoria Collins MP and Alex Sobel MP, alongside leaders and stars from the creative industries, participated in a photocall outside Parliament. This was planned to mark the third reading of the Data (Use and Access) Bill. The Creators’ Rights Alliance was represented by its Chair, Co-Chairs, and several Board members, who joined to show support for the Bill.
Although Amendments on Transparency were voted down at Report Stage we remain hopeful that there may be further movement from the Government. The Bill heads back to the Lords on Monday 12th May and Baroness Kidron will retable further Amendments. CRA recognises that this is just the beginning of an ongoing process of advocacy and continued efforts are essential to ensure creators' rights are upheld with transparency and fair remuneration.
Roundtable Discussion on AI and Copyright
The previous week the CRA attended the meeting chaired by Baroness Beeban Kidron. The meeting was well-attended by stakeholders from the creative sector, AI technology companies, and MPs including Select Committee Chairs Dame Caroline Dinenage MP and Chi Onwurah MP, who provided insights into the joint Science, Innovation and Technology, and Culture, Media and Sport session.
A notable highlight was the address by Björn Ulvaeus, former member of ABBA and current President of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC). Ulvaeus, who had recently met with Secretary of State Peter Kyle MP, emphasized the necessity of a balanced approach to AI development that respects creators' rights. He stated, “I am convinced that the AI revolution can be not only the biggest, but also the best, revolution that the creative industries have faced... but only if there is a legitimate, mutually-respecting partnership between creators and AI operators”
Westminster Hall Debate on AI and Intellectual Property
On Wednesday, 23 April a parliamentary debate led by James Frith MP, focusing on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on intellectual property rights. Ahead of which the CRA had briefed several MPsThe session garnered significant attention, with MPs from across the House spoke passionately and used several examples from creators to advocate for greater transparency and enhanced protections for creators. Several CRA members attended and met with MPs beforehand, you can watch the full debate here.
The CRA has been actively engaging with MPs to brief them on copyright issues, the impact of AI on creator incomes, and potential risks to the future talent pipeline. In an effort to bolster advocacy, the CRA is planning a series of drop-in sessions in Westminster to facilitate discussions with MPs as this will be a long term priority for members.
