Hargreaves report calls for overhaul of copyright law

The Hargreaves report has made 10 major recommendations to overhaul copyright laws that “obstruct innovation and economic growth in the UK”.

After a five month review, commissioned by prime minister David Cameron, Professor Ian Hargreaves said businesses trying to take advantage of opportunities in the online arena are being held back by archaic laws.

“Could it be true that laws designed more than three centuries ago, with the express purpose of creating economic incentives for innovation by protecting creators’ rights, are today obstructing innovation and economic growth?” said Hargreaves. “The short answer is: yes.”

Hargreaves complained that the biggest failings relate to copyright. His recommendations include forming a Digital Copyright Exchange to act as a one-stop shop to get clearance for the use of copyrighted content.

Labour has called on the Government to follow Hargreaves’ advice.

To read the full Guardian article, click here.