asked Her Majesty’s Government:

Whether they intend to implement any proposals of the European Commission to extend the term of copyright protection for sound recording performers from 50 to 95 years. [HL4749]

At the time of writing, the Government have not yet had a chance to study in detail the proposal in its final published form. Decisions on implementation will have to await the outcome of discussions at European level.

asked Her Majesty’s Government:

What discussions have they held with the European Commission on extending the term of copyright protection for sound recording performers since the proposals announced by Commissioner McCreevy on 14 February. [HL4750]

Since the 14 February announcement, government representatives have held a number of meetings and discussions with staff from the European Commission on this subject.

asked Her Majesty’s Government:

What discussions have been held between the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills on extending the term of copyright protection for sound recording performers since the proposals announced by Commissioner McCreevy on 14 February. [HL4751]

There have been regular discussions between the two departments on this issue.

asked Her Majesty’s Government:

How many people within the United Kingdom who currently receive royalties for sound recording performance will no longer receive royalties in the next 10 years as a result of the 50-year rule for copyright protection; and how this compares to the number of people no longer receiving royalties for the previous 10 years. [HL4752]

The Government do not hold such data.