Digital Economy Bill

In yesterday's Queen's Speech, the government outlined its Digital Economy Bill.

Perhaps the most eye-catching proposals are, as Broadcast reports, those to reduce online piracy and a requirement for Channel 4 to invest in films.

“Including film in Channel 4’s remit for the first time is a prize the UK Film Council has been chasing for many years,” [UK Film Council chief executive John] Woodward said. “Channel 4 has backed some great British films over the years, and strengthening its role in film production even further can only be good for the future of the UK film sector and UK film culture.

“For as long as Channel 4 has not been required by legislation to make films, Film 4 has remained on a knife-edge. The new legislation will finally embed film at the centre of Channel 4’s public service remit.”