The UK government’s plan to amend the proposed measures put forth by the Digital Britain report for dealing with internet piracy has been criticized by politicians and service providers alike. The government now plans to completely wipe out offenders from the list of broadband subscriptions. However, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills refuses to acknowledge that it has dropped the proposal of the original Digital Britain report.

The sudden change in the government’s stand has evoked open and instantaneous criticism from a number of service providers and politicians across the country. Talk Talk was the first provider to challenge the new plan. Later, Virgin Broadband told the BBC that the move was not only overtly strict but would also “alienate customers”.

The measure has also seen some eminent politicians speaking on the issue. Former Cabinet Secretary Tom Watson MP, while speaking on Radio 4’s PM programme, said Lord Mandelson had reached a wrong conclusion. The Liberal Democrat’s culture and media spokesman Don Foster MP corroborated Watson and said the decision is not safe. He added that the decision could mean disconnection even for parents who are unaware of illegal downloading by their children.

Despite being a strong supporter of Lord Mandelson

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