ISPs and campaigners slam file sharing law

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“This would be in direct contravention of their own goal of universal broadband access, as well as a curtailment of people’s freedom of expression,” he added.

He predicted the cut-off law would cause a public backlash. “The result of these proposals is likely to be protest, challenges and public arguments in the run-up to the general election. Popular movements in France, Sweden and elsewhere have kick-started over similar measures.”

The Pirate Party is set to run in the next general election on the very issue of file sharing. It said the government had “moved the goalposts” on the new regulations.

“This is a massive announcement that threatens far more people than before, yet it has been hidden away in an update to a consultation document,” said Pirate Party leader Andrew Robinson in a blog post.

“Yet again the Government have done exactly what the big media cartel have told them. There is still no hint of a real discussion on the rights and wrongs of file sharing, or that the strong arguments in favour of legislation will be given fair consideration.”

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