Labour leader Keir Starmer has emphasized the importance of preserving publisher rights and ensuring that media firms have control over how artificial intelligence (AI) uses their content.
His remarks come as the role of AI in the media sector becomes a focal point for regulatory discussions. Starmer stressed that allowing publishers to maintain control over their work is “essential for a vibrant media landscape,” especially given the pressing need for “trustworthy information” in today’s rapidly evolving media environment.
In his statement, released to coincide with be News Media Association’s annual Journalism Matters Week, Starmer pointed out the foundational principle of copyright, suggesting that a sustainable media landscape relies on this principle being respected, even as AI’s role in information gathering, content generation, and audience engagement grows. “We recognise the basic principle that publishers should have control over and seek payment for their work, including when thinking about the role of AI,” he stated. His words underscore growing concerns within the media industry about unauthorized AI-driven uses of journalistic content and the risks this poses to both the economic viability and ethical standards of journalism.
Starmer added, however, that this “vitality should not blind us to the challenges. And while thankfully there is no direct threat to press freedoms in our country, we must remain vigilant so that the growing power of digital technology does not begin to chip away at them. Particularly as artificial intelligence begins to transform our economy and way of life.” His caution points to the fine line between fostering innovation and safeguarding the freedoms that underpin a robust media landscape, a balance that becomes increasingly complex as digital technologies expand their influence.
These remarks also align with NMC mission to defend Primary Source Journalism (PSJ), highlighting the irreplaceable value of original journalism created by dedicated professionals. PSJ serves as the backbone of news reporting, ensuring that the public has access to credible and factual information, especially in a time of heightened disinformation risks. The NMC argues that without appropriate compensation and control over this primary source content, the media industry faces significant threats to its operational sustainability, as well as to the broader democratic function that journalism serves.
Starmer’s comments resonate at a crucial moment when AI technology is reshaping the media landscape. Major tech companies have increasingly turned to news publishers’ content as raw material to train AI models, often without direct permission or compensation for these uses. This trend has sparked widespread industry concerns, with publishers seeking clearer guidelines and a fairer distribution of revenue generated by AI applications that benefit from their content.
As AI becomes more prevalent in both the creation and distribution of news, Starmer’s stance aligns with mounting calls for regulation that safeguards publisher rights. “This is essential for a vibrant media landscape,” he emphasized, noting that a media ecosystem built on integrity and respect for intellectual property is more vital than ever. His focus on the rights of content creators and publishers seeks to strengthen the role of trustworthy, primary-source journalism in fostering informed communities and supporting democratic debate.
Starmer’s words also touch on the balance needed between innovation and ethical standards. While AI has the potential to greatly enhance news accessibility and personalisation, concerns linger about its potential misuse and impact on the financial health of news organisations. Starmer’s call for control and compensation reflects a growing sentiment that these emerging technologies must respect the value that professional journalism brings to society.
