BT, TalkTalk launch fresh appeal against Digital Economy Act

BT and TalkTalk have launched a fresh appeal against the UK government's contentious Digital Economy Act.

The internet service providers (ISPs) have been granted permission to challenge the High Court ruling that approved most of the anti-piracy legislation, BBC News reports.

Under the Digital Economy Act, ISPs will be required to issue warning letters to users found to be unlawfully downloading copyrighted content. BT and TalkTalk claim that the measure compels them to unfairly police their customers.

The government introduced the act to protect the creative industries, such as music and film, from the damaging effects of online piracy. The legislation has been the subject of an ongoing legal row since it was passed in the run-up to the last general election.

Figures from the creative industries have hit out at the latest ruling. Chief executive of production body PACT, John McVay described the turn of events as "disappointing".

He said: "Naturally, we are disappointed at this further delay. However, we respect the decision and are pleased that the appeal hearing will be fast tracked because, in the meantime, online piracy continues to wreak havoc on the legitimate market, threatening jobs and livelihoods."

The Digital Economy Act enables ISPs to impose sanctions on users in violation of copyright law at the behest of license holders. Such actions could include disconnection.

BT and TalkTalk have spearheaded the campaign against the legislation, though most of their objections have previously been dismissed. The companies' query regarding who covers the cost of handling rights holders' claims and sending out enforcement letters remains upheld.

Elsewhere, the French authorities are currently debating whether to criminally prosecute repeat offenders under its 'three-strikes' anti-piracy strategy.