The UK government has refused to extend the copyright for musicians. In Great-Britain musical works are protected 50 years after their recording – in the USA 95 years after their publishing. Musicians and music industry representatives had requested an extension of the rights to 70 years.

 

A government’s spokesperson declared a prolongation of the copyright would only generate higher costs and would not benefit much to most artists. In fact an independent study (“Gowers Review”) published last year had revealed that extended copyrights would mainly profit to labels and top stars, as most artists have agreed by contract to cede the gains from their usage rights to their labels.

 

The supporters of the extended copyright, first in line the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, now intend to get their aims accepted on European level. To them the UK government’s decision comes as a sign of disrespect towards the artists and the companies that have been investing in them. As for the support of the consumers it will certainly depend on whether they accept or not to bear the financial consequences of such a prolongation…

 

Source: Information service intern.de, July 26th 2007