A letter to The Guardian argues that tech firms should pay creators whose work they use. The proposal comes from four leaders in UK creative industries: Barbara Hayes of ALCS, Tayyiba Nasser of BECS, Christian Zimmermann of DACS, and Paul Seheult of PICSEL. Source: theguardian.com.
Why Creators Should Be Paid
Technology enables creative work to be copied and stored. But UK creators do not receive private-copying payments, unlike artists in over 40 countries.
Smartphones and computers allow users to access, share, and preserve creative content. Yet the value generated by this use is not shared with the creators who produce it.
The Smart Fund Proposal
A reader argues for a Smart Fund. This would require device manufacturers and importers to make modest contributions when devices are used to copy or store creative work.
That income would support creators, cultural programmes, and affordable workspaces.
Real-World Earnings Show the Gap
Visual artists earn a median of £12,500 a year — 47% less than in 2010. Authors earn only £7,000, down from £11,300 in 2018.
Audiovisual performers earn a median of £17,500 annually. These figures show a growing financial gap between creators and the technologies they help sustain.
How the Principle Works
When a smartphone is used to store a song or a video, the value of that creative work is amplified. The device enables wider access and use — but creators don’t benefit financially.
A reader argues that a small, consistent payment should be made to creators based on device usage. This would reflect the value of their work in the digital ecosystem.
Why It Matters
Creators drive engagement with technology. Without financial support, fewer people may enter creative fields, reducing innovation and diversity.
By sharing value, tech firms can support a sustainable creative ecosystem. This strengthens both culture and innovation.
Limitations and Open Questions
There is no current legal framework for such a fund in the UK. Implementation would require new legislation.
It remains unclear how contributions would be calculated or enforced. The letter does not address enforcement mechanisms or compliance.
The authors urge the UK government to act. They believe the principle of sharing value with creators should be turned into policy.
Sources & further reading
Featured image: original publisher image. Via original publisher. Image source
