UK Knowledge Collection | AI and IP infringement, renters' reform, and umbrella tax reform

The English High Court this week delivered its decision in Getty Images v Stability AI, which had been much anticipated. Getty withdrew its primary copyright and database rights claims during the trial, so the fundamental question of whether unauthorised web scraping and the subsequent use of such data for AI training in the UK constitutes primary copyright or database rights infringement remains unresolved. Further litigation or potentially government intervention to provide clarity may ensue – the government has still to respond to its consultation on AI and copyright which closed in February.

Following the enactment of the Renters' Rights Act, with its wide-ranging provisions and a shift towards greater tenant protections, the private rental sector will face a number of significant changes. Our Insight explores what landlords should start to consider, as further detail on implementation is awaited. Our property disputes experts will be hosting a webinar later this month on how to prepare for the new regime.

Ahead of the umbrella company tax reforms expected in the coming months, we are hosting a breakfast briefing in our London office next week to discuss how new joint and several liability provisions will affect users of umbrella companies, employers of record and other intermediaries in contingent worker supply chains.

Recent Insights

Stability AI generates big win in English court's landmark first judgment on AI and IP infringement

The court found in favour of Stability AI on all remaining points, after Getty withdrew its primary copyright and database rights claims, except for two historic and limited instances of trade mark infringement.
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Renters’ Rights Act becomes law: significant change for private rental sector in England

A major overhaul of renters' rights brings enhanced tenant protections and regulatory changes for landlords.
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Regulatory Outlook

This edition includes ESG developments in the EU, as the parliament rejects simplified sustainability rules under the Commission's proposed Omnibus Package I and the Commission proposes a delay to the Deforestation Regulation.
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ASA continues push against UK gambling adverts with 'strong appeal' to children

Three rulings have been published within a week of updated guidance from the Committee of Advertising Practice on protecting under 18s in gambling ads, highlighting that this is a priority area of focus for the Advertising Standards Authority.
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What international business can expect from COP30 on carbon markets

Discussions around climate financing at the COP30 climate summit in Brazil will be deeply connected with the progress of the article 6 agreement on carbon trading.
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Events

Prepare and and protect: umbrella tax reform, IR35 and HMRC enforcement

11 November | One London Wall | 08:30-10:30
With umbrella company tax reforms expected within months, this session will look at the new joint and several liability provisions and what they mean for those involved in the procurement, supply and payment of contingent workers.
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The All-Day Breakfast

13 November | One London Wall | 08:30-13:00
Workshops and roundtables with interactive case studies including how to respond to compliance breaches, AI governance and risk mapping, and managing compliance in today's geopolitical climate.
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Residential rental reform: preparing for the new landscape

20 November | 09:30-10:30 
A discussion of the Renters' Rights Act, with a focus on what is changing, when, and who will be affected.
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Dipping into Data

16:00-16:30
AI and cyber security | 27 November
Key AI takeaways from the latest conferences | 16 December
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