HC Deb 05 July 1982 vol 27 c16
26. Mr. Madel

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when the register for public lending rights will be open for authors to register their books.

Mr. Channon

On 1 September.

Mr. Madel

As it is understood that several European countries are to introduce similar public lending rights schemes, will my right hon. Friend consider extending our scheme on a reciprocal basis, so that British authors can benefit?

Mr. Channon

The only country in Europe that I know of that has a similar scheme is West Germany. We shall readily examine whether it is possible to have a reciprocal arrangement with West Germany. The question raises many difficult legal issues, but I am having it examined.