Brussels — Yesterday the UK Government introduced new exceptions to copyright law. The areas covered by new exceptions include private copying, quotation and parody, disability, public administration as well as research, education, libraries and archives including text and data mining for non-commercial research. This move is part of the outcome of the copyright review process initiated in 2011 which has been led by Professor Ian Hargreaves.
The introduction of these exceptions seeks to achieve more flexibility within the existing copyright framework as laid out in the EU Copyright Directive by which Member States are bound. The UK Government aims to create an environment that supports innovative businesses, researchers, consumers as well as creators. The introduction of these exceptions is specifically intended to create greater and more sustainable economic growth across industries.
The following may be attributed to CCIA Brussels Director Jakob Kucharczyk:
“We applaud the UK government for its reform efforts to make copyright suited for the digital age. What is particularly encouraging is the Government’s recognition that exceptions are a driver for economic growth and an enabler for innovation. The reforms are timely as well. As we expect a reform of copyright rules at EU level, the UK serves as a good example for the direction the EU should take to ensure that copyright lives up to enabling innovation across an integrated EU single market.”