Digital Economy Act

The Digital Economy Act is a law passed in the United Kingdom in 2010 which introduces new regulations on Internet use, specifically a new procedure for removing access to those alleged to have infringed copyright. It also contains changes to the public service remit of Channel 4, switchover to DAB digital radio and changing the rules on orphan works. The Bill originated in the Lords; Commons scrutiny took place during the 2010 wash-up.

The orphan works clauses have been removed in part because of the concern of photographers. Clauses 11-18 have been widely opposed by digital rights campaigners Open Rights Group. Opponents of the Act believe that it was only advanced because of a meeting in Corfu between Peter Mandelson and David Geffen.