Sir Elton John has delivered a scathing rebuke to the UK government over its plans to exempt technology firms from copyright rules, describing ministers as “absolute losers” and warning that artists are being betrayed by proposals that could let artificial intelligence companies exploit creative content without paying for it.
In an exclusive interview on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, the music legend accused the government of “committing theft, thievery on a high scale” if it allows AI developers to use the work of artists, writers, and musicians with no compensation or transparency. The outcry comes after MPs in the House of Commons rejected a House of Lords amendment that would have forced tech firms to reveal what material they are using to train their AI models.
“It’s criminal, in that I feel incredibly betrayed,” Sir Elton said. “The House of Lords did a vote, and it was more than two to one in our favour. The government just looked at it as if to say, ‘Hmm, well the old people… like me can afford it.’” He stressed that the real danger is for young artists, who do not have the resources to take on powerful tech companies in legal battles.
Earlier this week, the House of Lords voted to amend the Data (Use and Access) Bill, aiming to make sure copyright holders must give permission before their work is used by AI firms. But MPs blocked the amendment, leaving the bill in limbo as it continues to be debated between the Commons and the Lords.
Sir Elton warned that the current approach could “rob young people of their legacy and their income.” He singled out Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, calling on the government to “wise up” and referring to Kyle as “a bit of a moron.” The singer said he was ready to take legal action if the policy goes ahead, vowing, “We’ll fight it all the way.”
Playwright James Graham, who appeared alongside Sir Elton, echoed his frustration, saying that while ministers understand the value of creativity, there’s a “complacency or willingness to let Silicon Valley tech bros get it all their own way.”
The backlash is being echoed by industry figures. Tom Kiehl, chief executive of UK Music, warned that the government is close to “offering up the country’s music industry as a sacrificial lamb” in its efforts to cozy up to American tech giants. He called on the prime minister to protect the next generation of British talent, saying, “Don’t let soulless AI bots plunder their work.”
Before the vote, more than 400 artists including Beatles icon Sir Paul McCartney signed a letter urging the government to update copyright laws to defend creators against unchecked AI use. McCartney has previously warned of a “Wild West” where artists’ rights are not protected against AI exploitation.
Responding to the controversy, a government spokesperson said the aim is for both creative industries and AI firms to flourish, and that they are consulting on proposals to allow developers to use creators’ content unless rights holders opt out. The spokesperson added, “It’s vital we work through all the issues,” and confirmed that a report and impact assessment would be published before any new changes are made.
