Was Mandelson behind piracy crackdown?
Updated on 25 August 2009
The government has suddenly changed its mind on internet piracy to propose draconian new powers. Did another Corfu holiday meeting with the rich and famous turn Peter Mandelson's head?
Internet users who illegally download music and films could have their online access suspended under new government plans.
Under the proposals, internet service providers would be forced to take action against persistent downloaders by temporarily suspending accounts or blocking access to some sites.
This option was rejected in June when the government's Digital Britain report was published.
The U-turn has led to accusations that the Business Secretary, Lord Mandelson, had caved into industry lobbying.
What are the Wi-Fi dangers?
Benjamin Cohen interviews Deborah Prince of Which? magazine who outlines the potential problems facing internet users:
"Which? computing gets contacted on a daily basis by people saying they've been accused of illegal file sharing and they don't know anything about it.
"It's very difficult when you're in that situation because you're being asked for an explanation of what happened, and you just don't know.
"There's lots of things that could have happened - it could be that you've got Wi-Fi and it's unsecured and someone's managed to hack into your system.
"It could be that you're the victim of more pernicious form computer hacking and they've managed to get into your internet connection and access it remotely."
Extended interview: Pete Waterman
Pop music hitmaker Pete Waterman has praised the government for backing plans to cut internet access for illegal file sharers.
Mr Waterman said: "I am staggered that it has taken an American talking to a British minister when we have for nine or 10 or probably 15 years been talking to this government and the last government about illegal downloads and we have never been able to budge them."
He added: "It is fantastic that David Geffen has talked to Lord Mandelson but why has he not been listening to the record industry because the record industry in Great Britain has suffered with downloading probably more than any other industry."
Mr Waterman said the ISPs should contribute to the policing of downloads and added that the record industry had "dragged its heals" over the problem.
He added: "Artists don't want to stand in front of this camera and say 'don't steal my music' because it isn't cool."
He described the decision made by the government as "amazing and brave", adding that he was "absolutely staggered" by the move.
