Google published its response to the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology copyright consultation on April 2, 2025, outlining proposals for targeted, pro-growth, and pro-innovation copyright framework reforms to support the UK's AI leadership ambitions while respecting content creator rights. The submission follows the closure of the government consultation process on proposed local copyright law changes.
Google's response advocates for a balanced approach to responsible AI content usage designed to foster cooperation and build a thriving AI ecosystem. The company emphasises the need for reforms providing legal clarity, supporting technological advancement, and fostering collaboration between AI developers and rights holders for UK benefit.
The proposals target AI companies of all sizes, seeking copyright framework modifications that facilitate the UK's ambition to become a leader for AI investment and innovation. Google positions the recommendations as enabling continued discussion between technology companies and government on sustainable AI development approaches that balance innovation with creator protection.
The submission represents Google's contribution to the UK government's broader effort to establish appropriate regulatory frameworks for AI development while maintaining competitive positioning in the global AI market. The consultation response addresses the complex intersection of intellectual property rights and artificial intelligence training requirements.
The proposed reforms aim to provide legal clarity for AI companies operating in the UK market, potentially reducing regulatory uncertainty and enabling expanded AI development activities. The framework could establish precedents for other jurisdictions considering similar copyright adaptations for AI training and development purposes. Clear regulatory guidelines would benefit both large technology companies and emerging AI startups seeking to build products using content for training purposes.
Google's advocacy for collaboration between AI developers and rights holders suggests a framework emphasising licensing agreements and compensation mechanisms rather than restrictive prohibitions. The focus on pro-growth reforms indicates potential economic benefits for UK AI sector development while addressing creator concerns about content usage. The consultation response positions the UK as a potential leader in balanced AI regulation that could attract international investment and innovation.