UK Gov’t Pushes for Action on AI Copyright and Market Competition

The response of the United Kingdom government to a parliamentary report on artificial intelligence (AI) has resulted in a call for increased intervention. The report, issued by the House of Lords in February, focused on generative AI and large language models (LLMs). It pointed out that the government’s emphasis on high-stakes AI safety was hindering international competition. In response, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Michelle Donelan, stated that the government’s oversight of AI aligns with most of the parliamentary recommendations. Baroness Stowell of Beeston, the Chair of the Communications and Digital Committee in the House of Lords, urged the government to go further in addressing copyright infringement and market competition in AI.

Baroness Stowell highlighted the need for updated copyright legislation, criticizing the government’s unsuccessful attempts to address the issue. She expressed disappointment in the lack of commitment to enhanced governance measures for AI standards and policy decisions, and recommended that market competition become an explicit policy objective. She emphasized the importance of embedding competition into the design and review process for new policies and standards, while also subjecting it to internal and external critique.

The government’s response to the parliamentary report indicates a growing acceptance of regulatory reforms for AI. Recently, the UK National Crime Agency (NCA) and police were granted the authority to “seize, freeze, and destroy” cryptocurrencies associated with criminal activities without the need for formal arrests. This move aims to prevent criminals from profiting from illicit actions. Home Secretary James Cleverly justified the decision by citing instances of terrorist organizations raising funds through crypto transactions. The new regulations were implemented following the passage of a crime bill in 2023, enabling the swift seizure of cryptocurrency.

The government’s response to the parliamentary report showcases a willingness to address concerns surrounding AI regulation. While it aligns with some of the recommendations, there are calls for the government to take further action, particularly in addressing copyright infringement, enhancing governance measures, and promoting market competition. Recent regulatory reforms granting law enforcement powers over cryptocurrency indicate a commitment to prevent criminal activities and protect national security. These measures aim to strip criminals of their assets and disrupt their fundraising capabilities through crypto transactions.