The international recording industry welcomed today's decision by the European Union to extend the term of copyright protection offered to performers and producers from 50 to 70 years. The extension brings Europe's artists and producers closer into line with the protection offered to authors and composers (life plus 70 years). The directive also narrows the gap between the term of protection in Europe and that of other countries and regions, where term of protection can range from 70 to 95 years.

The decision was applauded by Placido Domingo, chairman of IFPI, which represents the recording industry worldwide: "The decision to extend the term of protection for recordings in Europe is great news for performing artists. Artists at the start of their careers will benefit from an increased pool of revenue that will be available to invest in new talent. Established artists can benefit from their work throughout their lifetimes. This is especially important today when licensed digital services make music widely available online.

"Extension of protection also reflects the important role performers play in the success of songs by narrowing the gap between the protection offered to recorded performances and that offered to compositions."