P2P file sharing software
The British government plans to crackdown on internet piracy reports The NZ Herald. It is estimated that one in 12 people (seven million people) in Britain illegally download films and music. The planned law changes are to be included in the Queen’s Speech in autumn. Proposed punishment for copyright infringement could see those involved face a fine of up to £50,000 (NZ$121,000) or ‘severe restrictions on internet access.’
Business Secretary Lord Mandelson is said to have been persuaded to implement tougher laws to curb illegal file sharing by a lobby group campaign supported by prominent people from the music and film industries.
The Herald also reports that the new Pirate Party UK has been receiving as many as 100 members per hour since it was established last week. The political party plans to stand in the next British elections. READ FULL ARTICLE This comes after the Swedish Pirate Party won a seat in the European parliament in June.
The UK and Swedish Pirate Parties are not affliated with the torrent site The Pirate Bay - whose four founders where found guilty of distributing illegal content in a Swedish court in April earlier this year. READ MORE FROM THE GUARDIAN . The Pirate Parties oppose restrictions on illegal file-sharing, censorship and pushes for ‘internet freedom.’ The Pirate Party New Zealand has plans to stand in the 20011 general election.
[...] British government announces a crack down on internet piracy. The planned law changes were included in the Queen’s autumn speech. [...]