The PA has delivered its submission of evidence today [4th March] to Professor Ian Hargreaves—who is heading the review—with case studies of digital content and industry experience supporting its argument that “the present intellectual property regime provides a fundamental support to the creative individuals and companies which drive innovation and growth.”

Hely Hutchinson backs the PA’s stance, saying: “Intellectual property is at the heart of making creative businesses viable. Without it there would be no incentive for publishing or exporting.” Barnsley called the opportunities opening up for digital publishing “fundamentally dependent upon copyright”, with Rebuck saying: “With the publishing sector in a transitional phase to a mix of physical and digital, stability in the IP regime which governs that is vital.”

The PA is also submitting the case studies section of its evidence, displaying digital innovation in the industry, as an enhanced e-book. PA chief executive Richard Mollet said: “It’s all about showing these things in a natural habitat. . .Our concern is that it [innovation] isn't widely known about.”

The Bookseller