US Tariff on UK Films

Baroness Kidron Excerpts

Thursday 8th May 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

The point that I made in answer to the previous question was in relation to the regions of England, but of course the devolved authorities must come into this picture. In moving forward with the trade deals that we have, we must not forget the significance of the EU market, particularly in this area of the creative industries. It is fundamental that we keep that at the front of our minds and protect those people who most need it.

[Baroness Kidron (CB)]

My Lords, the creative industries face threats on a number of fronts, including trade tariffs on touring, as we heard earlier, and the widespread theft of their copyright. I am grateful to the Government for their efforts to avoid tariffs for the film industry—of which I was once a part—and to restore touring rights. However, can the Minister say why the Government have not shown similar support on the industry’s need to protect its property rights from overseas AI companies? I ask her to discuss this with her colleagues before the data legislation comes to this House on Monday, when I will try to insist that the Government look at it one more time.

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

I thank the noble Baroness for her question. Yes, obviously, we need to keep this under review. It is heartbreaking for artists to lose their copyright in this way. It is an important issue, and one that we are still learning about.