The PPA has worked with the Alliance for IP and British Copyright Council to express our concerns that a broad exception for TDM would undermine the UK’s IP framework. The UK publishing industry is reliant on a strong IP framework to invest in quality content. Without the ability to license and receive payment for the use of their data and content, businesses may be compelled to leave the UK market or apply paywalls on content that is currently free to view.

Speaking to the House of Lords Communications and Digital Committee, the Minister acknowledged that the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is extending consultation on the issue, and that she is “not convinced of the value of this piece of work”. At DCMS questions last week, Lopez stated the additional consultation will “see if the proposals can be revised”, acknowledging that IP is the “lifeblood” of the creative industries.

The PPA is engaging with the IPO as it reconsiders the proposals, and will emphasise the need to retain the UK’s gold standard IP framework.