The UK government has abandoned its controversial plan to allow AI companies to train models on copyrighted works without permission. After facing significant backlash from artists and creators, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall announced the reversal, saying the government would take more time to find a balanced solution.

Under the original proposal, companies like Google and OpenAI could have used copyrighted material without consent, offering creators only an opt-out option. High-profile musicians including Sir Elton John, Dua Lipa, and Paul McCartney publicly opposed the plan, warning it would undermine creativity and allow AI companies to "rip off" artists.

The government now says it has "no preferred option" on how to proceed with copyright reform. In a statement, officials emphasized they won't rush changes until they can protect both the UK's creative industries and AI development. UK Music CEO Tom Kiehl called the reversal a "major victory" for artists, while promising to work with officials on next steps.