Music biz proposes 'iPod tax' in return for format-shift freedom

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A UK music industry trade body has proposed a tax on MP3 players that would not only ensure musicians and labels are paid their dues, but also that consumers who pay their way effectively have to cough up twice.


The tax has been suggested by the Music Business Group (MBG), an umbrella body that lists as its members organisations like the BPI, the Association of Independent Music (AIM), and licensing and royalties overseer MCPS-PRS.


The MBG hasn't said how much extra it wants consumers to pay for new iPods, Walkmen, Sansas and the like, but it wants the levy to be decided by the music industry and device makers rather than government.



Full Story: Here



Reckon its fairly obvious what El Reg's stance on this is, and I tend to agree with it to be honest. What do you guys think?

 

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Hermes the deal
It's very difficult to sue an entire countries citizenry
If they charge more than people are willing to pay, people will download it illegally
if they make it locked up tight and useless, people will download it illegally

If they adapt their archaic business model to what consumers want, we will pay! willingly!
if they leave it too long entire generations will grow up thinking music is free, and at a point a scale will tip and no one will be able to undo that notion, laws will change, etc etc

So let them try what they will, if its not in our best interests, we wont bite, nuff said!