Legislation to combat Internet piracy in the UK, including Internet bans for persistent illegal file-sharers, has cleared the Lords and now goes to the Commons where it may be rushed through before the general election.

Peers passed the Digital Economy Bill, which has cross-party support, after further concessions on a controversial the “catch-all” clause 17.

However with amendments that would have meant rights holders obtaining court orders to compel ISPs to disconnect offenders were rejected as unworkable, wide powers remain in place for ministers to amend copyright law to respond to future technological changes.

Categories: Articles, Broadband, Regulation