The creative industries have welcomed Richard Hooper’s report, Copyright Works, as it recommends the creation of a not-for-profit industry-led, industry-funded Copyright Hub and the establishment of a steering group to drive forward and oversee the design and implementation of the Hub.
Robert Ashcroft Chief Executive PRS for Music: “We welcome and support Richard Hooper’s findings and will work with our partners in the industry to meet the challenges he identifies, providing a better licensing environment for all.
While Publishers Association (PA) Chief Executive Richard Mollet said: “The Phase 2 Report from Richard Hooper sets out a clear road-map for the creative industries to develop a copyright hub-a not-for-profit, industry-led, voluntary body.
“Since our submission to the Hargreaves Review in March 2011 the PA has consistently made the case that publishers are in the business of facilitating access and innovating services to ensure that works are available in the market. We have long believed this aim is best achieved through market solutions, working with the grain of copyright and not eroding it.
“We look forward to working with others in the publishing sector, and the music, film and TV industries, to take up Hooper’s challenge to take forward the proposal to develop the copyright hub.”
And welcoming the report, Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “The idea of a ‘copyright hub’ is an ambitious undertaking and one that could clearly yield great benefits for the UK’s creative industries and consumers. It is potentially a groundbreaking step forward that will help make copyright licensing fit for 21st century.
“Richard Hooper has put forward a detailed and thoughtful report, with recommendations for industry and the Government. We will support the further work he recommends and, working alongside the industry, look forward to building the long term consensus to deliver this vision.”
For more information about intellectual property law, speak to our solicitor Chloe Bunn.