Elton John slams UK Government over 'criminal' copyright law changes

AFP | LA

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

British music icon Elton John has sharply criticized the UK government, calling them “absolute losers” over proposed copyright law reforms that he believes will unfairly benefit tech companies.

In a scathing interview aired by the BBC, the 78-year-old "Rocket Man" singer said he felt “incredibly betrayed” by the proposed legislation, accusing the government of trying to “rob young people of their legacy and their income.”

The planned changes, which John labeled “criminal,” would allow tech firms to freely use creators’ content unless the rights holders actively opt out.

John, who has sold over 300 million records globally during his legendary career, emphasized that emerging artists lack the financial means to fight powerful tech corporations.

“I’m not against artificial intelligence,” he clarified, “but when it comes to music and creativity, there must be boundaries.”

The legislation in question—the Data (Use and Access) Bill—is currently under consideration in Parliament. The House of Lords had supported an amendment requiring rights holders to grant permission before their work could be used, as well as access to information about what content was used, by whom, and when.

However, on Wednesday, members of the House of Commons—where the Labour government holds a commanding majority—voted down the amendment, sparking outrage from John and other artists.