Elton John Criticizes UK Government Plans Exempting AI From Copyright

Sir Elton John has strongly criticized the UK Government's plans to exempt AI companies from copyright laws, calling them "absolute losers" and accusing them of committing "theft, thievery on a high scale" by allowing technology firms to use artists' content without compensation. He expressed his anger and sense of betrayal during a BBC interview, warning that such policies would rob young artists of their legacy and income and lamented the government's rejection of amendments to the Data (Use and Access) Bill that would have required AI companies to disclose and obtain permission for the materials used in training their models. The House of Lords supported transparency protections by a large majority, but the House of Commons voted against these changes, prolonging the legislative deadlock. Elton John also called on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to "wise up" and labeled Technology Secretary Peter Kyle as "a bit of a moron," indicating readiness to pursue legal action to defend creators' rights. The government maintains that it will not change copyright laws unless satisfied they benefit creators, emphasizing the economic importance of data use, but creatives continue to demand stronger protections for their works against AI exploitation.