National can correct Labour's S92A mistake

19 February 2009

National can correct Labour's S92A mistake

The Government should stop the guilt upon accusation provisions in the Copyright Act from coming into force next week and allow a review of the draconian clauses in the Act, said Green MP Metiria Turei today.

The provisions mean that Internet Service Providers, (ISPs), will be forced to take down internet connections and websites of anyone accused, not convicted, of copyright infringement.

"Only National can stop this madness, with an Order In Council. The guilt upon accusation provisions of section 92A are just the tip of the iceberg," said Mrs Turei, Green Party ICT Spokesperson.

"The Bill Labour tried to introduce today does absolutely nothing to rectify the problems. Their Bill was a token gesture. It should have been extended to cover all the flawed clauses."

"ACT, United Future and now Labour are all desperately trying to flip flop, reversing their support for this flawed legislation. It only remains to be seen if National has the courage to stop it going into force."

"The Green Party was the only party to oppose this nonsense at every stage in the House, offering amendments in a genuine attempt to fix it."

"Getting a Minister to review an industry policy is laudable, but does not eliminate the guilt upon accusation provision which is repugnant to our system of justice."

Several other countries and the European Union have all rejected S92A-style laws, with the UK citing "impracticalities and complexities".

"New Zealand should not be a world leader in suppressing creative freedoms," Mrs Turei said.

We are really pleased to see groups such as the Creative Freedom Foundation speak out, which represents artists who do not want to see ISPs face injustice in their name.

ENDS