[A2k] UK changes in copyright: financial implications for non-profit clubs

[Manon Ress]

http://www.rya.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/newsroom/news/Pages/MusicLicensingFees-=
Consultation.aspx

The UK Intellectual Property Office is currently consulting on the
proposed changes to the exemptions from public performance rights in
sound recordings and performers' rights contained within the Copyright
Designs and Patents Act 1988.

The consultation is primarily focused on the requirement for
charitable and not-for-profit organisations to pay royalties for
playing recorded music.  It has submitted three alternative proposals:

     * rescind the PPL exemptions;
     * narrow the scope of the PPL exemption so that they are only
available to small charities (that is charities with an annual
turnover of less than =A320,000) whilst at the same time extend the PPL
exemption to PRS; or
     * remove the PPL exemptions but impose royalty rates which are
considered fair to both producers / performers and users, referred to
as 'equitable remuneration'.

The consultation closes on 31st October 2008.  You can obtain a copy
of the consultation by visiting the UK Intellectual Property Office
website (follow the link in the related links section above).

The proposals may effect clubs in England, Wales, Scotland and
Northern Ireland.

The average cost of a PRS licence is =A3369 and it is estimated in the
consultation that the cost of a PPL licence would be between =A3103 and
=A3164 which would place another unwanted financial burden on clubs.

The PPL is arguing that its members are entitled to payment from
organisations that are currently exempt.  If the PPL's arguments are
successful this would mean that clubs that are currently exempt from
having to obtain a PPL licence would in future be required to obtain
one.

The outcome of this consultation will have financial implications for
clubs and we would therefore urge all clubs that play recorded music
at their clubhouse to respond to this important consultation in an
effort to try and salvage the current PPL exemption and seek to extend
the exemption to PRS licenses for the benefit of not-for-profit clubs,
which in our view should not be limited to charitable organisations.

For further information kindly contact the Legal Department: Tel: 0845
345 0373 or email: legal@rya.org.uk






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Manon Ress
manon.ress@keionline.org,

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