The government has laid out its plans to deal with illegal file-sharers as part of its Digital Economy Bill, outlined in the Queen’s Speech.

It includes the power to disconnect persistent pirates.

But its controversial broadband tax is not mentioned and will be launched as part of the Finance Bill, due next year.

Other elements of the bill include a shake-up of radio spectrum and a classification system for video games.

To read this BBC News report in full, see:
news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8366255.stm

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Digital economy bill promises action on piracy, games and ITV regional news
A clampdown on unlawful online file-sharing, a push for the switchover to digital radio in 2015, tougher laws to stop children getting hold of violent video games and power for Ofcom over the provision of regional news on ITV are the highlights of a rather anaemic digital economy bill, to be published on Friday.

The bill, announced in the Queen’s Speech today outlining this Labour government’s final legislative programme, will also include a simplification of the UK’s complex copyright laws, making it easier for people to use images on the internet without having to get permission.
www.guardian.co.uk/media/2009/nov/18/digital-economy-bill

Government confirms plan to disconnect alleged file-sharers
The Government has confirmed that it will pass legislation allowing for the termination of internet connections used by suspected illegal file-sharers but has not yet said whether the action will be subject to independent or court oversight before it takes place.

The Digital Economy Bill was announced by the Government today and is expected to be published on Friday. It commits the Government to passing a law introducing disconnections but makes no mention of court oversight.
out-law.com/page-10538