Proposed File Sharing Policy Criticised by BT Boss

11 Mar 2010

The Internet accounts of illegal file sharers could be cut-off if a proposed bill is passed in parliament this week.

The bill which is currently being considered, proposes that illegal-file sharers should be punished with the forced closure of their internet accounts. British telecom's chief executive, Ian Livingston however, has publicly spoken out against this policy.

In a letter to the Financial Times, Livingston argued that the Digital Economy Bill was unjust and unhelpful. Rather than suspending internet access, he proposed fining those who perpetuate online piracy. The accused could then choose to pay this fine or object and take their case to court.

Livingstone maintained that a fining system would "get some good, rather than getting some hurt out of the people infringing copyright."

print this article