UK election: Labour proposes ‘long-term’ IP vision
The Labour Party has said a long-term approach to protecting intellectual property is “crucial for the economy”, but has remained vague on its specific plans should it be elected next week.
In the party’s pre-election manifesto, it said that the future of jobs and investment was dependent on a strong IP framework and that it would continue to call for a robust regime in Europe.
After being contacted by WIPR for further details a party spokesperson saidthat making sure the country’s IP system was fit for purpose was an important part of ensuring the creative industries have the “certainty and stability” to survive.
“Our shadow team has challenged the government to set out a long-term vision for IP, rather than undertaking piecemeal and ad hoc attempts to tinker without consulting parliament or key stakeholders. We believe such a long-term approach is crucial for our economy,” the spokesperson added.
Labour is the second political party to have outlined its plans to WIPR ahead of the general election on May 7.
So far, only the Green Party of England and Wales has proposed a concrete IP policy. The party said earlier this month that it would, if elected, propose a ‘life plus 14-years’ term of copyright protection, a policy it has since announced it will be reviewing after facing criticism from right owners.
The Conservative Party said in its manifesto that it would “build on its initiatives” developed in the previous Parliament, but did not respond to a request for further details.
Carl Rohsler, partner at law firm Squire Patton Boggs in London, told WIPR that IP was “not a vote winner” and was therefore not mentioned by parties when canvassing ahead of the election.
“No party is going to spend much time on IP because it is not an issue which translates into votes.
“The public doesn’t really understand IP, and to the extent that it is faced by IP, the picture is a negative one in the sense that they are told that they cannot copy content, view certain content abroad, or make copies of things for their friends.”
Rohsler added: “The IP system we have is not bad, and is not really in need of reform. Most changes are driven at EU level anyway so I do not see it as a strong issue in the election, which is a bit of a shame.”
Opinion polls are currently suggesting a hung Parliament.
