Digital bill 'funds future artists'

There needs to be a legal framework in place that says 'piracy is wrong and you shouldn't steal from artists', said music industry news source Record of the Day.

A spokesperson from the site, said: 'It's not about stealing from the major record labels, it's about making sure that somehow the artists of the future are funded.'

She suggested that the Digital Economy Act might not reduce piracy and it will only be enforced if the music industry is seen to fully support new digital services.

However, the nation seems divided over the new act, which came in before the general election.

An Ipsos MORI poll revealed that 48 per cent of those surveyed agreed that it was acceptable for ISPs to limit download speeds, while 45 per cent agreed that it was acceptable to suspend access for repeat offenders.

Free streaming sites such as Spotify have been found to move people away from piracy, offering a 'legal alternative' for the public.