Royal Assent for the Digital Economy Bill

The Digital Economy Bill has now been published as the Digital Economy Act 2010 following Royal Assent.  The Act includes provisions relating to the UK’s communications infrastructure, public service broadcasting, copyright licensing and online infringement of copyright, and security and safety online and in video games.

Some of the measures in the Act will come into effect immediately with others coming into effect in two months’ time. Many of the Act’s provisions require further public consultation and in some cases approval by Parliament, before they can be implemented.

Further information:

• Factsheet: Contents and Commencement of the Act : a summary of the Act’s contents.
• The Digital Economy Act 2010 : the Act itself.
• Ofcom Terms of Reference : Ofcom’s initial obligations and approach under the Act, and opportunities for stakeholder engagement.
• Mott-MacDonald – P2P Final report : a recent report from consultancy Mott MacDonald, advising on cost allocations with regard to the Act’s provisions.