The PPA is urging the government to protect publishers’ rights in the AI era – here’s why it matters and how to support the campaign

The PPA has today released an article highlighting the urgent need to protect publishers’ rights in the face of AI-driven change. With the UK Government’s consultation on copyright laws closing today (25 February), the PPA is calling on policymakers to ‘Make it Fair’ – ensuring that AI companies cannot use publishers’ content without permission or payment.

As a PPA member, with chief executive Kevin Costello sitting on its Board, Haymarket is in full support of the campaign. Strong copyright protections are vital to the sustainability of our industry, safeguarding the work of our journalists, editors, and creators while allowing AI innovation to thrive in a fair and responsible way. 

The PPA outlines the risks posed by the proposed changes, which could undermine the value of original content and weaken the UK’s publishing sector.

Sajeeda Merali, CEO of the PPA said: “The UK’s creative industries generate over £120 billion for our economy, and trusted editorial brands play a hugely significant role in this, employing over 55,000 people in the UK. 

Yesterday the PPA submitted a response to Government as part of its consultation on AI, following weeks of gathering crucial evidence and examples from members on how publishers are being impacted.

The Government’s proposed changes to copyright law threatens to allow AI companies to use the creative content from PPA members and others without permission or payment.

The publishing industry stands united with the wider creative sector, in calling for fairness, transparency, and control over how AI firms use our valuable work. Without these safeguards, the UK risks stifling both creative innovation and the long-term potential of AI.

We encourage everyone to join with us to urge the government to enforce existing copyright law and support a thriving, fair licensing market that benefits both creators and AI developers alike.”

How can support be shown?

The Creative Rights in AI Coalition has made it quick and simple to write to MPs by providing downloadable templates. The PPA is encouraging its members to utilise this resource to send a clear message opposing the weakening of copyright protections for AI firms and advocating for the protection of creative rights.

More information about the Creative Rights in AI Coalition and the organisations involved can be found here.Read the full PPA article here and stay tuned to Haymarket’s social channels for updates, using #MakeItFair.

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Media Enquiries:

Tara Geoghegan, Impact & Communications Manager, Haymarket Media Group 

[email protected] 

About Haymarket Media Group

Haymarket Media Group is a privately-owned media, data and information company, providing remarkable content to specialist audiences across the world. The company has 1,300 employees across offices in the UK, US, Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Germany and the Netherlands. Haymarket’s portfolio consists of more than 80 market-leading brands including What Car?, Campaign, PRWeek,  MyCME and Asian Investor.

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