A breakthrough offer could resolve a bitter dispute over artificial intelligence protections for UK performers. Equity, the union representing actors and entertainment workers, announced a fresh proposal following constructive talks with producers that delivered improved AI safeguards. The development comes after union members voted last month to threaten industrial action over digital scanning rights.
The Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (Pact) sent new wording with enhanced AI protections to Equity. Both sides have agreed to enter further negotiations. The agreement would underpin terms and conditions for the vast majority of UK film and TV work, covering actors, stunt artists, singers and dancers.
Ballot threat focused minds
Paul W Fleming, Equity's general secretary, credited member pressure for the breakthrough. In the union's announcement, he said: «Equity members should be in no doubt that it is their support and determination to secure AI protections which led to this improved offer. Last month's ballot result showed that an overwhelming majority of performers are prepared to refuse scanning on set, and that focused the minds of producers, leading to this improved offer.»
Fleming acknowledged the offer doesn't cover everything Equity demanded. «It doesn't cover everything we've asked for, and the coming weeks will be instrumental in securing the protections performers need in the age of AI and scanning on set,» he said.
Next steps
The constructive meeting with Pact discussed the revised offer and further improvements Equity is seeking. «A constructive meeting took place with Pact where we discussed the revised offer and further improvements we are seeking,» Fleming said. The upcoming negotiations will determine whether comprehensive AI protections can be finalized.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
