Heritage Minister vows to make downloading illegal, while NDP leader questions appropriateness of such action

Following on reported meetings with the Canadian recording industry last week, after the Federal Court decision finding that mere downloading and passive file-sharing does not infringe copyright, Canada's Minister of Heritage has stated her intention to amend the Copyright Act so as to make such activities illegal. At the same time, Jack Layton, leader of the New Democratic Party, has publicly challenged the government's approach to P2P, suggesting that the issue deserves more consideration before moving ahead with law reform. Globe & Mail, Apr.13 (quoting the Minister) Edmonton Journal, Apr.6 (posted on NDP website)