Illegal file-sharing: Gov't says enough is enough

The government has unveiled plans to tackle illegal file sharing along with steps to protect intellectual property and promote broadband.

Legal Eye on illegal file-sharing


Read silicon.com's legal columnist, Simon Levine's verdict on this issue…

Although the government has a preference for voluntary action by ISPs to crack down on illegal file sharing, it has warned it will turn to statutory regulation if no solution is found by April 2009.

The government said it supports discussions between ISPs and rights' holders about action for illegal file sharing as part of a Department for Culture, Media and Sport action plan for the creative industries.

A survey by moneysupermarket.com found 17 per cent of British people admit to illegally downloading content, although one in eight said they are unaware their downloads are illegal.

Almost half of respondents (45 per cent) admitted to buying illegal discs, while 18 per cent said they've offered a pirate disc to someone else.

There will also be work carried out to improve understanding of intellectual property and step up enforcement through the 'Fake Free London' campaign.

The action plan also outlines the need to prepare the way for the adoption of new technologies to ensure the country doesn't get left behind competitively or technologically.

This includes further development of broadband - through schemes like the Business Link network and Enterprise Capital Funds - to help the UK's creative industries remain competitive.