Bond Pearce

The proposals include:

• allowing private copying eg making it legal to copy a CD to a MP3 player
• widening the exception for non-commercial use to allow data mining
• introducing an exception to allow creative freedom to parody another's work
• establishing a licensing and clearance procedure for 'orphan works' (material from unknown copyright owners)
• introducing provision for voluntary extended collective licensing schemes to allow authorise collecting societies to license on behalf of all rights holders in a sector except for those who have opted out
• modernising other exceptions for copyright eg education and those with disabilities. 

The Consultation ends on 12 March 2012. For further information email: copyrightconsultation@ipo.gov.uk. 

Call for evidence on developing a Digital Copyright Exchange (DCE) in the UK

In November 2011, Vince Cable announced the appointment of Richard Hooper to lead a feasibility study on developing a Digital Copyright Exchange (DCE) in the UK.  Phase 1 of the study will focus on issues surrounding copyright in the digital age.  Phase 2 will look at possible solutions to any issues found.