Starmer Advocates for Media Control Over AI Output
Keir Starmer has put forth a strong argument advocating that media outlets should not only have control over their work but also receive proper compensation as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform both the economy and society in the UK. In a recent address that coincided with the launch of the News Media Association’s Journalism Matters campaign, Starmer regarded journalism as the “lifeblood of democracy”. He pledged to champion press freedoms and ensure that the advancements of digital technology do not undermine the crucial role that journalists and media publishers play in upholding democratic values.
Starmer’s proposition highlights a shift in recognizing the rights of content creators in the AI landscape. He stated, “We recognize the basic principle that publishers should have control over and seek payment for their work, including when thinking about the role of AI.” This acknowledgment suggests a push towards a more equitable media landscape where the provision of reliable information becomes increasingly vital amid rampant misinformation.
Recent discussions have revealed concerns over governmental plans allowing AI companies to scrape content from various publishers and artists, with significant entities like the BBC opposing potential frameworks that permit tech companies to utilize online material in their AI training by default, unless publishers opt out. This position underlines the importance of protecting intellectual property in an era where the boundaries of content usage are continuously being tested.
Furthermore, while the government aims to attract substantial investment from technology firms, having already announced over £25 billion slated for UK data centers, it has also warned that unless Britain increases its capacity for such infrastructure and permits tech firms to integrate copyrighted content in their AI models, the nation risks falling behind. This has been compared to requiring homeowners to post notices to deter potential burglars—a telling analogy illustrating the precariousness of such a proposal on creators’ rights.
In a relevant legislative context, the Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Act is expected to empower the UK’s competition watchdog, aiming to rebalance the existing dynamics between a small number of tech firms and consumers and businesses. The new regulations could potentially reshape how content is accessed and used in AI systems, paving the way for fairer practices.
Starmer also addressed broader concerns regarding public engagement with news, referencing a June report indicating a marked increase in individuals selectively avoiding news, now at a high of 39% across 20 key markets. Contrarily, he emphasized the resilient nature of the British news industry, which still reaches over 80% of the population through its extensive network of over 900 local and national titles.
Moreover, Starmer commended the persistent efforts of journalists, particularly during election campaigns, stating that accountability is central to a functional democracy. He reminisced about how he and former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced a vigorous press without retreating against the scrutiny, highlighting this interplay as fundamental democratic action.
Starmer also paid tribute to journalists who have faced grave dangers for their reporting, notably mentioning Ukrainian journalists like Victoria Roshchyna who have been captured and harmed in conflict zones. His acknowledgment resonates within an international context where journalists often put their lives at risk to convey important truths.
Amidst these discussions, there was notable anxiety surrounding the Labour Party’s reaction to strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) aimed at intimidating those in media, academia, and activism. Although there was no commitment to immediate legislative action, the party pledged to review this pressing issue, reflecting an understanding of its criticality to protecting investigative journalism and access to justice.
In summary, Starmer’s commitment to ensuring that media firms retain control over their output in the realm of AI is indispensable in preserving press freedoms. As AI continues to evolve, safeguarding the principles of journalism is essential not just for content creators but for society at large.