The Digital Economy Bill, Malcolm McLaren, Richard Branson and me…

The Digital Economy Bill that was hurried somewhat undemocratically through the Houses of Parliament this week is an ill-conceived, poorly thought-out and downright ludicrous piece of legislation that will cause all sorts of problems whilst potentially and unnecessarily criminalise a considerably significant proportion of the unwitting British public.

This piece of legislation is going to throw up all sorts of legal and logistical conundrums as it primarily affects the provider of the internet connection rather than the “illegal” downloader.

I’d love to get a legal perspective on the following scenario that I’m currently testing at the moment.

I’m on my way to London on a Virgin Train, enjoying free Wi-Fi coverage courtesy of a mistaken upgrade to First Class.  I’m also currently downloading “God Save The Queen” via Pirate Bay, which was the first single the band released on Richard Branson’s own Virgin Records.  Seemed like the perfect test track to use (Malcolm McLaren RIP) as I’ll also be over by Buckingham Palace in a wee while visiting Google HQ (that’s a story for another day!)

Would this count as one of the three “strikes” that could lead to Virgin Trains losing their internet connection? Can I expect the police to be waiting for me at Euston Station?