A judicial review by the High Court has ruled against the government on its decision to introduce a private copying exception into UK copyright law.

The British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors (BASCA), Musicians' Union (MU) and UK Music had initially welcomed the change to UK law which came into effect in late 2014 and which enabled consumers to copy their legally-acquired music for personal and private use.

Re-consider

However, the court's ruling means that the government will have to reconsiders its position after it was felt that such action could cause 'significant harm' to rightsholders. European law requires fair compensation to be paid.

Last November, BASCA, MU and UK Music — backed by PRS for Music and PPL — launched a legal challenge against the provision, although each said they remain open to meaningful talks to resolve the issue.

The High Court agreed with us that Government acted unlawfully. It is vitally important that fairness for songwriters, composers and performers is written into the lawJo Dipple, chief executive of UK Music

Fairness

Jo Dipple, chief executive of UK Music, stated: "The High Court agreed with us that Government acted unlawfully. It is vitally important that fairness for songwriters, composers and performers is written into the law.

'My members' music defines this country. It is only right that government gives us the standard of legislation our music deserves. We want to work with government so this can be achieved."