The UK Government has published the Digital and Technologies Sector Plan (Industrial Strategy: Digital and Technologies Sector Plan) under its broader National Strategy for Economic Transformation. This wide-ranging initiative sets out the long-term vision to drive innovation, investment and growth across the UK’s digital, tech and creative sectors by 2035.
At the centre of the Plan is the government’s commitment to ensuring that the UK’s intellectual property (IP) and copyright framework remains effective and fair in the context of artificial intelligence (AI) development—balancing the interests of content creators and AI developers.
Key Commitments in the Plan
- Copyright and AI Framework: The government has restated its intention to support rightsholders in licensing their content in the digital age, while also enabling AI developers to access creative material. This reflects the government’s broader strategy to create a balanced, innovation-friendly copyright environment.
- Ongoing Analysis and Forthcoming Reports: DSIT is still reviewing the responses to its recent consultation on copyright and AI. Crucially, it has committed to publishing:
- An economic impact assessment on the interplay between copyright and AI,
- A report on the use of copyrighted materials for AI training,
- Guidance on transparency and technical standards.
Although no timeline has been given, these reports will likely shape how businesses manage data, training materials and copyright compliance.
- Vision for 2035: The Sector Plan is part of a broader vision to make the UK a global leader in technology and innovation. This includes nurturing a robust digital infrastructure, improving access to funding, and enhancing the regulatory environment to support both established tech firms and emerging start-ups.
What This Means for Businesses
Whether your organisation is building AI models, using generative tools, relying on third-party data, or creating digital content, this evolving policy landscape is highly relevant. The Plan signals a move towards:
- Greater clarity on lawful use of data for AI and machine learning,
- Support for licensing mechanisms that facilitate access while respecting IP rights,
- Regulatory updates that may affect how AI tools are trained, deployed, and commercialised.
What Should Businesses Do Now?
- Review your use of third-party content in AI tools and digital processes,
- Stay informed about the upcoming economic impact assessment and copyright guidance,
- Prepare for change in licensing and compliance obligations—especially if your business uses AI models trained on copyrighted material,
- Engage with industry bodies or respond to future consultations to help shape a pragmatic and innovation-friendly IP framework.
The UK’s Digital and Technologies Sector Plan marks a step forward in aligning copyright law with the realities of AI development and digital transformation. As the regulatory and economic frameworks evolve, now is the time to assess your organisation’s IP, data use and compliance strategies.
If you would like tailored advice on copyright, licensing or AI compliance, please get in touch.