Copyright extension is essential; this Thursday's debate on intellectual property rights brings issue into sharp focus.(EDITORIAL)

For those who have long argued against Government intervention into a commercially driven sector such as music, these must be tough times indeed.

As the industry readies itself for this Thursday's first open debate of Andrew Gowers' review of intellectual property--and with it a review of term on sound recordings--it can take heart from the DTI's gesture in support of British export.

The news that the DTI is attempting to assist British talent in gaining a foothold in the US suggests that the Government is certainly willing to listen. Support in cracking America has been high on the industry agenda for several years, as evidenced by the debate a few years ago surrounding the proposal for a New York music office. Remember that?

Of course, words still need to be met with actions, but the latest words are encouraging at least.

The debate surrounding copyright term is of a wholly different order, though. This week's Music Week focuses in some measure on our campaign to "Extend The Term!" We make no apologies for that. The issue of term extension is hugely important.

Music Week first highlighted the issue 18 months ago, under its Out Of Copyright banner, before the issue had been fully grasped by those in the UK who make a living ...