U2 Manager Takes Aim At Internet Service Providers

U2 manager Paul McGuinness has accused of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) of not doing enough to stop illegal downloading.

In an editorial piece for GQ, McGuinness said legislation should be brought in to force ISPs' hands.

"I am convinced that ISPs are not going to help the music and film industry voluntarily," he wrote.

"Some things have got to come with the force of legislation, [French] President Sarkozy understood that point when he became the first head of state to champion laws to require ISPs to reduce piracy in France.

"In Britain, the major political parties have understood it, too.”

McGuiness added that the passing of new anti-piracy laws in April's Digital Economy Act meant the country was now well placed to rebuild “our battered music business”.

The Irish band's manager launched a similar appeal at the MIDEM music conference in Cannes two years ago.

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