Want more proof that the world of online licensing is rapidly becoming a farce? You got it! YouTube is to make thousands of music videos unavailable to UK internet users after failing to sign a new licensing deal with the Performing Rights Society (PRS).Both sides are, naturally, blaming the other for the decision. PRS boss Steve Porter tells BBC News that he's “outraged… shocked and disappointed” by the decision, which the PRS claims was made by YouTube without warning during negotiations between the two parties.”Google has told us they are taking this step because they wish to pay significantly less than at present to the writers of the music on which their service relies, despite the massive increase in YouTube viewing,” says a PRS statement.“This action has been taken without any consultation with PRS for Music and in the middle of negotiations between the two parties.”However, YouTube has hit back, with director of video partnerships Patrick Walker telling the BBC that the decision was a “regrettable” necessity, due to the PRS seeking a rise in fees “many, many factors” higher than the previous agreement.”We feel we are so far apart that we have to remove content while we continue to [...]
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