United Kingdom: Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and Department for Culture, Media and Sport published report on copyright and AI

On 18 March 2026, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport published a report on copyright and artificial intelligence (AI) pursuant to section 136 of the Data (Use and Access) Act. The report evaluates the use of copyrighted works in developing AI systems, focusing on access to data, transparency regarding training sets, technical standards for access control, and licensing of copyright works for AI development. It addresses the enforcement of restrictions on AI outputs that utilise protected material. Additionally, the report explores the risks associated with digital replicas, such as AI-generated voices or likenesses, noting that existing legal frameworks, including copyright and performers' rights, may not provide sufficient redress for unauthorised impersonation. The report suggests that while current laws require a substantial part of a work to be copied for a violation to occur, they do not adequately cover new AI-generated performances. Consequently, the government proposes to explore new policy options, including the potential introduction of a personality right, to address these gaps while supporting innovation in the creative and technology sectors. The publication was issued alongside an economic impact assessment to outline the financial implications of potential regulatory changes for AI developers and rights holders.