WIREDGOV

The CBI commented on the announcement from the European Commission on the modernisation of EU copyright rules and digital contract rules for e-commerce.

Matthew Fell, CBI Interim Chief Policy Director, said:

“Delivering a digital single market in Europe could increase growth and jobs in a modern and outward-looking Europe, and is a key plank of the reforms needed to deliver a more competitive European Union. But these proposals from the Commission are a mixed bag.

“Businesses will welcome better co-ordination of company and consumer law to help drive more online buying and selling across borders, allowing them to reach a wider customer base.

“The Commission is also right to enable consumers to access digital content they have purchased in one country when they visit another. But there must be better safeguards, like clear residency and ownership tests, in place to protect the business models of our film and music makers and their ability to reinvest in new content.

“European institutions and businesses must work constructively together as these proposals move through the legislative process in Brussels. This will ensure a market-led, workable solution that supports the shared ambition for a competitive digital single market.”