File-sharing target

Government letter reveals aim to cut illegal downloads by 80%

26 July 2008 - It's emerged that the government has set a target to slash illegal file-sharing by 80% over the next three years.

Earlier this week, it was announced that six of the biggest ISPs have agreed to send letters to users who share music for free, warning them that they're breaking the law.

The letter from business minister Baroness Vadera was sent to the proposed signatories of the memorandum of understanding and aims to ensure all those involved have the same expectations.

According to The Guardian, the letter states: "I would regard a reduction as 'significant' if it had reduced the number of people file-sharing unlawfully in the UK by well over 50%, and we hope in the region of 70%-80% from a baseline to be agreed, with work to start immediately, rather than waiting for legislation."

"I would regard a reduction as 'significant' if it had reduced the number of people file-sharing unlawfully in the UK by well over 50%"
Baroness Vadera

The music industry claims that between six and seven million people in the UK are involved in illegal downloading and uploading.

The six biggest ISPs - BSkyB, Tiscali, BT, Orange, Virgin Media and Carphone Warehouse - are to send out 1,000 letters a week to subscribers involved in such behaviour.

"Success will significantly depend on the effectiveness of the letter writing, awareness raising and other measures," Vadera adds.


Andre Paine