CRA submits evidence on GenAI and the creative industries
29th January 2026
Today we submitted evidence for the Government’s upcoming report on AI and copyright in the creative industries. We shared data showing the devastating impact on creators’ livelihoods and rights and the unique challenges facing freelancers.
Alma Economics has been commissioned by the Government to undertake economic analysis of generative AI, copyright and the creative industries. This will contribute to the upcoming economic impact report on AI and copyright which the Government will publish in mid March.
Drawing on a range of data, the submission makes these points clear:
The impact of generative AI on creator incomes, livelihoods and the quality of work is a major worry for our members. There are two key issues: the displacement and substitution of creators’ work by AI, and the lack of copyright enforcement when their work is used to train AI programs. Without levelling up financial incentives and securing clear legal frameworks, the Government risks losing the nation’s creative individuals.
Multiple studies illustrate the work displacement and loss of income that has already - and rapidly - happened as a result of GenAI, as well as the projected losses to come without intervention.
Freelancers have long been a significant proportion of the creative and cultural sectors, making up around a third of all workers - more than double that of the whole economy. They face unique challenges around income and work security, which the economic analysis must include.
Despite the challenges creators face, they are currently still major contributors to the nation’s economy, society, culture and global reach. As a highly valuable and established sector in a wider context of stagnating employment, it makes sense for the Government to protect, not further risk the livelihoods and work opportunities of creators.
