The UK government’s proposals on copyright and artificial intelligence (AI) pose a serious threat to the creative industries, The University of Salford’s director of music and performance has said as the consultation comes to a close.
Salford Uni’s Tim France has called on the government to rethink proposals that would introduce a new exemption in copyright law to allow technology companies to use creative works – including music, films, television shows and journalism – to train their AI models without the permission of creators – unless the creator actively opts out.
His comments came as Britain’s creative industries launched the ‘Make It Fair’ campaign yesterday (Tuesday 25 February), which called on the UK government to safeguard the existing UK copyright model and ensure a sustainable future for both AI and the creative industries.
More than 1,000 musicians, including Kate Bush, Damon Albarn, Annie Lennox and Tori Amos, have released a silent album in protest against the plans called ‘Is This What You Want’ which featured recordings of dormant music studios and performance spaces.
France said: “The UK government’s proposed copyright changes allowing AI companies to use artists’ works without explicit permission present a serious threat to creative industries. At the University of Salford, where we nurture the next generation of musicians, composers, and producers, we see first-hand how much effort goes into original music creation. AI has enormous potential as a tool, but without proper protections, it risks undermining the rights of artists and devaluing their labour.
“A system that requires artists to ‘opt out’ rather than seek their consent places an unfair burden on creators, many of whom already navigate precarious financial conditions. Music isn’t just data—it carries cultural, emotional, and intellectual weight that cannot be ethically extracted for AI training without permission.
“The UK’s creative industries contribute over £120 billion annually to the economy, and the government should be working to strengthen protections for artists, not erode them. At Salford, our industry masterclass guests—representing the UK’s largest media organisations—are committed to supporting new talent. Crucially, they have assured us that all future commissions will come from real people and musicians, not AI-generated content. This stance demonstrates that industry leaders value human creativity and understand the need for ethical boundaries around AI.
“We support initiatives like ‘Is This What We Want?’ and call for a fair, transparent approach that respects musicians’ rights while exploring AI’s possibilities in ethical and sustainable ways.”
