04/01/2012

Changes To Digital Copyright Laws Take Next Step

A study to review the UK's digital copyright laws have entered the next stage as questions continue over whether the current laws are "fit for purpose".

The body looking into the issue have on Wednesday made a call for evidence as part of their feasibility study on developing a Digital Copyright Exchange (DCE) in the UK, that could see a 'one-stop shop' where companies can purchase copyrighted materials such as articles.

The study is being carried out in two parts with Phase one is looking at all of the issues highlighted in a review by former The Independent editor, Professor Ian Hargreaves, surrounding copyright licensing in and for the digital age in further detail.

The second phase will examine and recommend solutions to the issues raised, with the digital copyright exchange being considered a strong potential solution by the Government.

However, the National Union of Journalists has voiced its opposition to the DCE, saying the proposed 'rights clearing house' would "invite many kinds of abuses".

The union did, however, welcome the government's backing of a proposal to establish a copyright small claims track in the Patents County Court for cases involving £5,000 or less.

Conducting the review, Richard Hooper said: "This is a controversial issue with strongly held opinions across the spectrum - we are seeking hard data and evidence for or against the main, or parts of the, hypothesis.

"The responses I receive will help to inform my thinking as I move to develop a concept for workable licensing solutions to problems identified."

(DW)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

27 June 2012
New Measures Announced To Protect The UK's Digital Economy
Internet users will be encouraged to download music and films through legal channels under new measures outlined by Ofcom. Ofcom has published a draft code for consultation that would require large internet service providers (ISPs) to inform customers of allegations that their internet connection has been used to infringe copyright.
27 April 2004
BBC publishes first report on digital TV switchover
The BBC has published its first report on the proposed switchover to digital television.
07 January 2004
Public ambivalent on digital television, says report
More people would be willing to take up digital television if they were given the right information and the switchover were easy and cost-effective, according to new research published by the Department of Trade and Industry.
03 June 2011
Small Businesses Warned On Image Use
Small business owners are being urged to check the images they are using on their websites in order to guard against costly copyright claims.
05 February 2015
BT To Acquire EE For £12.5bn
BT has announced the acquisition of mobile operator EE. It is understood the agreement is worth £12.5 billion. In a statement, the telecoms provider said the collaboration will provide customers with "innovative, seamless services that combine the power of fibre broadband with wi-fi and advanced mobile capabilities".