Licensing regime tough on small businesses says the Chamber
08/02/2008
The Chamber, which represents businesses in Bedfordshire and Luton, has expressed concern over a new scheme from Copywatch, the compliance arm of the Copyright Licensing Agency, that offers rewards of up to £100,000 to employees who blow the whistle on businesses that photocopy magazines, books and journals illegally.
A Copyright Licensing Authority License is required by any business that copies or scans publications including multiple viewings of electronically delivered press cuttings.
Commenting on the scheme, Richard Lacy, Chief Executive of the Chamber said:
'Of course we should respect copyright law but yet again small businesses are affected disproportionately. A small business with under fifty employees would need to pay £335 per year. This may not sound a huge sum but it is yet another burden on already over-burdened small businesses, many of whom may only make occasional copies. Encouraging employees and even ex-employers to 'shop' their employers with big rewards is the wrong approach to the problem. Small businesses would prefer the CLA consulted with them and reached a solution that respects copyright but also allows occasional copying without the need to buy an expensive license.'
Added Mr Lacy:
'We have seen a similar situation with the Performing Rights Society which has been contacting businesses that, for instance, play the radio in the workplace telling them they must purchase a yearly licence which can cost up to £470. Chambers across the country have been reporting that the PRS has been ramping up its efforts to get money out of businesses, many of which simply are not aware of the law. Again we respect the law but feel that it has to be proportionate and sensibly enforced.'
