Nearly 70% of voters do not support plans to force internet
service providers (ISPs) to disconnect suspected illegal file
sharers.
The government has proposed that ISPs be
required to cut off users who are suspected of online copyright
infringement.
But 68% of respondents to a YouGov poll commissioned by the Open
Rights Group said a court should consider the evidence in each case
before restrictions are imposed.
Only 16% of 1,967 adults said they were in favour of automatic
internet bans based on accusations.
Jim Killock, executive director of the Open Rights Group, said,
"This poll shows people rely on the internet, and an overwhelming
majority think that access should only ever be withdrawn as the
result of court action. Nearly a third would be much less likely to
vote for a party that supports disconnection proposals.
"Only a tiny number - 16% - think the government has got this
right.
"Clearly business secretary Lord Mandelson is out of step with
public opinion and should think again. MPs should take note, and
sign the cross-party Early Day Motion opposing these extreme
proposals."
The early day motion was tabled by Tom Watson, the former
minister for digital engagement. He is urging the government to
rethink the policy. His stance is backed by ISPs, who say the
policy would not actually help the problem anyway as illegal file
sharers could use someone else's IP address, or encrypt their
traffic.