On the 27th March 2013, DCMS published its response to the Government consultation on the proposed transfer of the Public Lending Right functions from the existing body. Despite an overwhelming response in favour of the retention of the current PLR office which respondents said is “excellent”, “effective” and “efficient”, Government’s intends to transfer PLR to the British Library.
The BCC asked Maureen Duffy, its President of Honour, author and campaigner for PLR to comment. Maureen said:- “Our response is that while we are sorry that there has had to be this upheaval and uncertainty we are pleased and relieved that the extremely efficient and author friendly service of the PLR office in Stockton has been guaranteed for 10 years, subject to review after five years, and that Dr Jim Parker is to continue to head it for 2 years though we would have preferred this to be at least 5, especially in view of the work he has done at an international level where the UK is seen as a leading light in the field.”
A more detailed reaction and analysis by the Society of Authors can be found here.