French senate approves internet piracy law

France’s Senate has given final approval to a law that would punish people who download music and films illegally by cutting off their internet connections.

The law creates what could be the world’s first government agency to punish online pirates.

Today’s 189-14 vote followed approval yesterday by the lower chamber.

However, the law’s future is in doubt because of a European Parliament measure that would prohibit cutting off an internet connection without a court order. A final version of that measure must still be negotiated with the European Council.

If finalised, the Europe-wide rule could contradict and override the French one.