Jacko wacko over file swap jail threat

Music legend Michael Jackson has described himself as "speechless" that users of internet file sharing services may face jail if new laws are introduced in the US.

Internet users who swap music could fall foul of the US government's proposed Authors, Consumer and Computer Owners Protection and Security Act of 2003 (ACCOPS), recently introduced in the House of Representatives, the US government's lower house.

If passed, the legislation would make it a serious offence to download even one single copyrighted work, including music, with proposed fines of up to $250,000 and up to five years in prison as punishment.

"I am speechless about the idea of putting music fans in jail for downloading music. It is wrong to illegally download, but the answer cannot be jail," said Jackson in a statement.

Jackson called on artists, the music industry and consumers to work together to agree on a less draconian method of combating internet-based copyright piracy.

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is currently taking legal action to force internet service providers to identify individuals so that it can pursue them through the courts.

Jackson said: "Here in America we create new opportunities out of adversity, not punitive laws; and we should look to new technologies, like Apple's new Music Store, for solutions.

"This way innovation continues to be the hallmark of America. It is the fans that drive the success of the music business; I wish this would not be forgotten."