Government Stands Firm on AI and Copyright as Much Needed Data Bill Passes, Says CDI

LONDON—Following the passage of the Data Use and Access Bill, the Center for Data Innovation released the following statement from Ayesha Bhatti, head of digital policy for the UK and EU:

The passage of the Data Use and Access Bill is a major step forward for the UK’s digital economy. The Bill provides a long-overdue framework for enabling data-driven innovation across sectors—modernising how individuals, businesses, and public services can access, share, and use data.

Crucially, the Government succeeded in steering the Bill through despite repeated attempts by the House of Lords to impose prescriptive new rules on AI and copyright. In place of premature legislative obligations, the Government has adopted a more pragmatic approach: committing to deliver evidence through a faster reporting timeline, exploring enforcement options, and considering the global nature of AI development.

This is the right outcome. It is sensible that the Government has chosen not to rush into legislation—particularly while a parallel consultation is already underway. Mandating sweeping new transparency obligations at this stage would have risked unintended consequences for the UK’s AI ecosystem, just as global competition intensifies.

The passage of this Bill is a win not just for data reform, but for measured, evidence-led policymaking. If the UK is to be a serious AI power, it should continue to resist short-term political pressure in favour of long-term strategic thinking.

Contact: Nicole Hinojosa, [email protected]