TalkTalk and BT DEA appeal begins

TalkTalk and BT DEA appeal begins

Internet providers TalkTalk and BT are beginning their long-awaited appeal against the government’s planned Digital Economy Act (DEA).

The rivals are teaming up against plans to involve internet service providers as gatekeepers in the fight against illegal online piracy of video, music, games and films content.

After initially failing in their fight to win the right to appeal earlier in 2011, they were finally granted permission to take their case to the Court of Appeal in October, and the case began on 16 January.

The appeal rests on the argument that the government’s proposals would represent an invasion of privacy issue and would also result in huge costs for ISPs. The case claims that the rules are unfair as the responsibility for users’ activities lies with the broadband account holder, driving up costs for internet service providers.

TalkTalk strategy and regulation director, Andrew Heaney argues that the legislation was “rushed into law” without considerable discussion, in the dying days of the Labour government.

BT’s spokesperson was confident that the firms will be successful in their appeal when questioned about the matter in summer 2011. He stated, “Both companies continue to take the view that the regime represents a disproportionate interference with the rights of internet service providers, subscribers and internet users and with the concept of freedom of expression. The two companies have chosen to seek an appeal."

The two ISPs claim that the DEA legislation will not have its desired impact on piracy and illegal file sharing as those who commit these crimes now, will continue to do so, but through undetectable measures, claimed Mr Heaney.

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