14 DAY TRIAL // The UK government rejected a recent proposal that encouraged the authorities extend the copyright over music content from 50 years to 70 years. The official reason for the rejection was that an approval of the proposal would require the European Commission to modify the law and would bring additional costs to the government. However, numerous UK artists are now accusing the authorities of not supporting the music industry to protect its own creations. According to Reuters, the campaign was started by Cliff Richard, the artist who created the "Move It!" hit in 1958 that is about to lose its copyright protection at the end of this year.
"The UK is a world-beating source of great music, so it is frustrating that on the issue of copyright term the government has shown scant respect for British artists and the UK recording industry," John Kennedy, head of the IFPI body which represents the international recording industry, said in a statement for Reuters. "Some of the greatest works of British music will soon be taken away from the artists who performed them and the companies that invested in them."
The copyright protection has always been a major problem for both authorities and artists because the music industry required tougher laws able to protect them. Now, after another proposal was rejected, most of the singers are criticizing the authorities for not supporting them and for encouraging other persons to use their creations without even paying for it.
"Thousands of musicians have no pensions and rely on royalties to support themselves. These people helped to create one of Britain's most successful industries, poured money into the British economy and enriched people's lives. They are not asking for a handout, just a fair reward for their creative endeavors," The Who's Roger Daltrey said according to TechCrunch.