Copying - more on the law
I want to see the actual law behind all this
Many of the links above will take you to more detailed sources of information or allow you to e-mail someone who can help.
The best place to look is on the UK Intellectual Property Office web site at http://www.ipo.gov.uk/cdpact1988.pdf which is an annotated and amalgamated copy of all the copyright law. But be warned, it’s long and complex.
What is fair dealing?
Fair dealing is not defined in law. It is generally considered that it is fair dealing to copy for:
- research for a non-commercial purpose or private study
- criticism or review
- reporting current events
However fair dealing does not cover:
- Multiple copying or systematic copying
- Copying a substantive part of a document generally meaning you should only copy one chapter of a book or one journal article or 5% which ever is the greater.
You should note:
- Scanning is covered (like copying) for the above purposes, but not if you then reuse the material for other than private study.
- You must acknowledge the source of the material used. We suggest you use the system in the University How to Study guide.
Do I have to give away my rights as an author if I publish something?
No. The is a useful video clip (in Dutch with English subtitles) on authors rights you can watch. You also need to read the university Intellectual Property Policy.
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