The Culture Media and Sport committee has published the Government’s response to their recommendations in the “Creator Remuneration” report which was published earlier this year.
Directors UK’s Chief Executive, Andy Harrower, gave evidence to the committee as part of their inquiry into Creator remuneration, highlighting the precarious nature of freelance director’s careers and the instability of creators’ income. Appearing alongside colleagues from across the industry, Andy advocated measures to better support self-employed and freelance directors and other creators.
The CMS Committee published its report in April 2024 which included a number of these recommendations including the introduction of a private copying scheme, such as the Smart Fund, the appointment of a Freelancer Commissioner, and mechanisms to ensure creators are compensated for the use of their work by AI developers.
The Government’s response to the committee’s recommendations highlights the value of the Creative Industries and the importance of freelancers to the sector, whilst recognising the challenges the self-employed face. Their response sets out plans to improve job quality and opportunities for the self-employed across the UK and commits to engaging further with the creative industries, including Directors UK, to discuss proposals for a Freelancer Commissioner and to progress outcomes from the Good Work Review.
The response also acknowledges the importance of intellectual property — which it refers to as “the product of human creativity, skill and talent” — and appropriate remuneration, as critical to the success of the UK Creative Industries. On the proposals for a private copying scheme, it has said it will further explore this issue with the IPO (Intellectual Property Office) and representatives from the creative industries. On AI regulation the Government has acknowledged the need for greater clarity over copyright and are expected to announce their next steps soon.
Andy Harrower, Directors UK Chief Executive said:
“Freelance creatives — including TV and film directors — are the people whose work makes the creative industries the success that they are. Making sure their careers are sustainable, and addressing the precariousness of freelancing in our sector, is key to ensuring growth. We look forward to working with the Government to explore solutions following its response to the CMS report on creator remuneration.”
Read about Andy’s appearance before the committee: Directors UK - News - Directors UK advocate for fair pay and the protection of creators' rights before the Culture, Media, and Sport Select Committee
Read the Government response in full: Creator remuneration: CMS Committee publishes Government response to report - Committees - UK Parliament
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