Keir Starmer warns AI must not endanger Britain's media industry

News publishers must have control over and seek payment for their content amid the continued march of artificial intelligence, Sir Keir Starmer has urged.

In an article for the launch of the News Media Association's Journalism Matters campaign, the Prime Minister said journalism is the 'lifeblood of democracy'.

He praised the 'vitality' and 'extraordinary strength' of the UK's media landscape, adding: 'There are over 900 local and national news titles in the UK.

'For all the prophecies of doom about the future of news, that represents an extraordinary strength. 

The British news industry reaches over 80 per cent of the population.'

But he warned the rapid evolution of digital technology must not be allowed to undermine Press freedoms. He said ministers were working closely with artificial intelligence (AI) firms and news publishers to 'strike a balance in our industrial policy'.

He added: 'We recognise the basic principle that publishers should have control over and seek payment for their work, including when thinking about the role of AI. It is essential for a vibrant media landscape, in which the sector's provision of trustworthy information is more vital than ever.'

Last November the executive chairman of the Daily Mail's owner warned AI could decimate independent news publishers in the UK and could pose an 'existential threat to democracy'.

In an interview with the Times, Lord Rothermere accused tech firms of 'ripping off' news articles written by journalists at his DMGT media group to train their AI models.