Legislation in air as Government pledges support to online piracy.

April 2009 deadline imposed for internet service providers to deal with illegal filesharers in Government document applauded by music industry

Creative industries minister Margaret Hodge believes the music industry is "going to be thrilled" by the Government's introduction of an April 2009 deadline for internet service providers to take action on illegal filesharing.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport last week published its document on the future of the UK creative industries, Creative Britain - New Talents For The New Economy, in which it outlined a commitment to crack down on illegal filesharing.

Commitment 15 of the document states, "We will consult on legalisation that would require internet service providers and rights holders to co- operate in taking action on illegal filesharing - with a view to implementing legislation by April 2009."

"The Government recognises the value of the current discussion between internet service providers and rights-holders; we would encourage the adoption of voluntary or commercial agreements between the ISPs and all relevant sectors," it continues.

"While a voluntary industry agreement remains our preferred option, we have made clear that we will not hesitate to legislate in this area if required."

The Government's decision follows a groundswell of music industry support for a crackdown on piracy among ISPs: recent months have seen parties including U2 manager Paul McGuinness and the IFPI outline ways in which such a scheme could work, including a "three strikes and you're out" policy, whereby ISPs cut the connections of its clients who illegally share music after a series of warnings.