Government on the Rights Track?

Various music industry bodies are seeking a judicial review of new legislation that allows fans to make copies of legally purchased music.

As reported in The Guardian, The Musicians’ Union, the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors (BASCA) and UK Music are taking legal action over the move that came into effect on 1st October, arguing that creators should be compensated due to the loss of sales. This would be in line with EU law, which accommodates “fair” compensation for rights holders.

Essentially, the Government scrapped an ancient law that made it technically illegal for music fans to download a legally purchased CD onto a laptop or smartphone. This is all arguably a bit late in the day with streaming being the future of music and all, but the trade bodies clearly feel there is a principle at stake.

Chief Executive of Basca Vick Bain said: “We fully support the right of the consumer to copy legally bought music for their own personal and private use, but there must be fair compensation for the creators of the music”.

UK Music CEO Jo Dipple added: “Licensing is the business model for the UK music industry’s success in the digital age. However, where the right to licence is removed rights holders should be compensated. Copyright enables people to earn a living out of their creativity and sustains jobs. The Government has made a serious error with regards to private copying. The legislative framework must guarantee musicians and composers are fairly compensated”.