Apig launches copyright enquiry

The All Party Parliamentary Internet Group (APIG) is holding a public inquiry into the issues surrounding Digital Rights Management (DRM).

DRM software is designed to protect copyright in material such as music, films or software that is stored or transmitted digitally. It works by scrambling content and dictating how it is used.

The issue has hit the headlines recently when music giant Sony BMG installed a form of DRM on CDs that install allegedly contained dangerous spyware on user’s PCs. Although the company has agreed to recall the CDs with this protection on and stopped production, the issue of DRM is still a thorny issue.

The arguments surrounding DRM are usually flagged up as a battle between the music or movie industry and publishers of software, worried about piracy and anxious to prevent revenue loss from illegal duplication. They are pitted against consumers, who fear they may lose existing rights to freely enjoy what they have purchased and to pass it on to others when they have finished with it.

However Apig thinks this argument is too simplistic so the inquiry will focus on areas such as whether DRM distorts traditional tradeoffs in copyright law; how consumers should be protected when DRM systems are discontinued, should exceptions within DRM be made for disabled people and to what extent.

It will also look at whether DRM can have unintended consequences on computer functionality, such as with the Sony software and what legal protections copyright holders have against those who wish to break the protection.

Those interesed in participating in the inquiry can find more details on APIG's website or email their suggestions to admin@apig.org.uk. APIG requires written evidence from interested parties by 21st December 2005.

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