Sir Elton John has launched a blistering attack on the UK Government, calling ministers “absolute losers” and accusing them of “criminal” behaviour after MPs rejected a proposed amendment to the Data (Use and Access) Bill that would have granted creatives greater protection against artificial intelligence (AI) use of copyrighted work.
The legendary singer-songwriter said he feels “incredibly betrayed” after the House of Commons voted 297 to 168 against a House of Lords-backed amendment that sought to give copyright holders the right to grant or deny permission for AI companies to use their intellectual property.
‘We’ll fight it all the way’ – Elton John vows legal action
In an interview with the Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, Sir Elton did not mince words.
“The government are just being absolute losers, and I’m very angry about it,” he said. “They’re going to rob young people of their legacy and their income. It’s a criminal offence. We’ll fight it all the way.”
The singer also slammed the government for disregarding a Lords vote in which peers supported the amendment by more than two to one, saying the government dismissed it as if “old people like me can afford it”.
He said the policy would harm not just established artists but future generations of musicians, writers, and creators.
AI vs Copyright: The growing debate
The contentious issue revolves around the unchecked scraping of creative works—music, art, literature—by AI developers to train large language models and generative tools.
A cross-party alliance in the House of Lords backed an amendment that would have forced AI firms to seek permission and disclose how creators’ work was used. Supporters argue this is a necessary step to ensure fair compensation and transparency in an AI-dominated digital age.
However, the Government opposed the move, citing ongoing consultations and warning against “piecemeal” legislation.
A Department for Science, Innovation and Technology spokesperson said:
“We want our creative industries and AI companies to flourish, which is why we are separately consulting on a package of measures… We will not rush into any decisions.”
They claim the broader aim of the Bill is to unlock the secure and effective use of data, with potential to boost the UK economy by £10 billion over the next decade.
Industry backlash and public support
Sir Elton is not alone in his outrage. Hundreds of artists, authors, and musicians have signed letters calling for stronger protections. UK newspaper publishers have also recently launched the “Make It Fair” campaign, accusing AI firms of “content theft”.
On social media, many sided with Sir Elton. One X user wrote: “Elton John is right—why should tech giants get to steal years of hard creative work?” Another added: “Parliament is choosing Silicon Valley over British culture.”
What’s next?
The row now moves back to the House of Lords, with the potential for further legislative back-and-forth. Meanwhile, Sir Elton John has hinted at taking legal action if the government refuses to act.
“I’ll do everything I can. If that means taking them to court, then so be it,” he said.
With AI’s rapid advancement and its growing impact on intellectual property, this confrontation is unlikely to be the last. For many in the creative sector, it’s a defining battle over who owns the future of culture.
