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Digital Economy Bill [HL]

My Lords, a great deal has been said on the amendment. However, while acknowledging the statement on the front of the Bill regarding compatibility with the convention rights to which the noble Earl, Lord Erroll, referred, perhaps I may draw the Committee’s attention to the internet freedom clause of the soon to be adopted European Union telecoms package, which sets out in relation to illegal file sharing that, ""measures may only be taken with due respect for the principle of presumption of innocence and the right to privacy"." The package states that a, ""fair and impartial procedure shall be guaranteed"." That is fundamental to these proposals achieving widespread support from across the Committee. I therefore hope the Minister can confirm that the Government have received thorough legal advice that their measures are compatible with this and other European law.