Labour MEP welcomes copyright victory for musicians - 2009-04-23

Neena Gill MEP today called on European governments to extend copyright terms to favour all musicians.

The proposed EU law aims to extend the period during which performers can claim royalties for their recordings from 50 to 70 years. The Parliament voted today to extend the term to 70 years, to make its position clear to some EU governments who are holding up discussions on the issue.

West Midlands MEP, Neena Gill said: "Today's vote in the European Parliament is a victory for musicians across Britain. EU Member States' Governments now need to do the right thing and back the Parliament's vote on this important issue."

"I have fought and secured a number of amendments such as the ‘use it or lose it' clause which will stop big record companies being able to sit on artists' works indefinitely.

"Despite the glamorous image of the most famous, we need to remember that the vast majority of musicians are on a modest wage, and rely on royalties when they get older. Especially during the current climate, like all other workers these people need to be protected. This new law will do precisely that."

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