The Bill and You

What is the Digital Economy Bill?

The Digital Economy Bill (DEB) is the Government’s legislative response to the Digital Britain report, which was published on 16 June 2009. It was announced by the Government in the Queen’s Speech on 18 November 2009. It had its second reading in the House of Lords on 2 December 2009. The DEB has now passed to the committee stage in the House of Lords.

Who should take an interest in this bill?

• If your home Internet-connection contract is in your name;
• if your business offers Internet access to the public (wifi hotspots or terminals);
• if your income relies on copyright law (software writers, publishers, authors, bloggers, photographers, musicians, film-makers, artists, DJs, newspapers, radio stations etc.)