IFPI statement on the French Assembly debate on the Creation and Internet Law

London, 10th March 2009

Statement from IFPI Chairman and CEO John Kennedy as the French Assembly starts debating the Creation and Internet Law:

“The music industry is rapidly changing its way of doing business, responding to consumer demand and embracing new forms of licensing and distribution. Our future, like that of the film industry and other media depends on whether we can sustain a legitimate business in an environment that has been swamped by unauthorised free music. Over the last two years the French government has led the way in addressing this critical challenge. It has recognised that involving ISPs in addressing the massive flow of infringing content on their networks is not only essential to protect the rights of creators and producers, but can provide a sensible and proportionate solution that will work effectively in practice. The music industry internationally strongly supports the Creation and Internet Law proposed by the French government. The proposal is good for a thriving music market in the 21st century, good for music consumers and good for artists, creators and producers whose rights need protecting in the digital world.”

For further background on developments internationally, please see the attached media backgrounder.

For further information please contact:
IFPI London - Adrian Strain or Alex Jacob
Tel: +44 (0)20 7878 7935
Email: press-office@ifpi.org

Notes to Editors:

IFPI represents the recording industry worldwide, with a membership comprising some 1400 record companies in around 70 countries. IFPI's mission is to promote the value of recorded music, safeguard the rights of record producers and expand the commercial uses of recorded music in all markets where its members operate.