Limitations imposed by copyright

Limitations imposed by copyright

When you buy software, for example, copyright law forbids you from:

·                                 giving a copy to a friend

·                                 making a copy and then selling it

·                                 using the software on a network (unless the licence allows it)

·                                 renting the software without the permission of the copyright holder

                                    

Names, titles, short phrases and colours are not generally considered unique or substantial enough to be covered, but a creation, such as a logo, that combines these elements may be.
Normally the individual or collective who authored the work will exclusively own the rights. However, if a work is produced as part of employment then normally the work belongs to the person/company who hired the individual. For freelance or commissioned work, rights will usually belong to the author of the work, unless there is an agreement to the contrary, (i.e. in a contract for service).
Only the owner, or his exclusive licensee can bring proceedings in the courts against an infringement.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/ict/legal/2copyrightrev1.shtml

http://www.copyrightservice.co.uk/copyright/uk_law_summary

Freedom of Information Act

Freedom of Information Act

The Freedom of Information Act passed on 30 November 2000, coming into force in January 2005. The act outlines the public’s right to access all types of recorded information, held by public authorities, with exemptions. The Act defines the term ‘public authority’, and all public bodies and government departments in the United Kingdom. The FOI (Freedom of Information) Act encourages organizations to be open and transparent. It applies to public authorities, affecting these organizations;

-         Publicly funded organizations

-         Government departments

-         Local authorities

-         Police and Police authorities

-         National Health Services

-         The armed forces

The government becomes much more transparent through this, and makes them seem like they are not afraid to show the public their expenditures.
www.bbc.co.uk