Copyright (Visually Impaired Persons) Act 2002

6Interpretation

In the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (c. 48), after section 31E insert—

“31FDefinitions and other supplementary provision for sections 31A to 31E

(1)This section supplements sections 31A to 31E and includes definitions.

(2)A copy of a copyright work (other than an accessible copy made under section 31A or 31B) is to be taken to be accessible to a visually impaired person only if it is as accessible to him as it would be if he were not visually impaired.

(3)“Accessible copy”, in relation to a copyright work, means a version which provides for a visually impaired person improved access to the work.

(4)An accessible copy may include facilities for navigating around the version of the copyright work but may not include—

(a)changes that are not necessary to overcome problems caused by visual impairment; or

(b)changes which infringe the right (provided by section 80) not to have the work subjected to derogatory treatment.

(5)“Approved body” has the meaning given in section 31B(12).

(6)“Lending”, in relation to a copy, means making it available for use, otherwise than for direct or indirect economic or commercial advantage, on terms that it will or may be returned.

(7)For the purposes of subsection (6), a loan is not to be treated as being for direct or indirect economic or commercial advantage if a charge is made for the loan which does not exceed the cost of making and supplying the copy.

(8)The definition of “lending” in section 18A does not apply for the purposes of sections 31B and 31C.

(9)“Visually impaired person” means a person—

(a)who is blind;

(b)who has an impairment of visual function which cannot be improved, by the use of corrective lenses, to a level that would normally be acceptable for reading without a special level or kind of light;

(c)who is unable, through physical disability, to hold or manipulate a book; or

(d)who is unable, through physical disability, to focus or move his eyes to the extent that would normally be acceptable for reading.

(10)The Secretary of State may by regulations prescribe—

(a)the form in which; or

(b)the procedure in accordance with which,

any notice required under section 31C(7) or (8), or 31D(1), must be given.

(11)Any power to make regulations or orders is exercisable by statutory instrument subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.”