The MCPS Waiver Agreement
In December 2006, we launched a new Waiver Agreement for manufacturers of audio and audio-visual products for retail and non-retail distribution. This replaced our existing Code of Practice for Manufacturers.
Who do we offer the Waiver Agreement to?
The Waiver Agreement is offered to companies who manufacture audio and audio-visual products in the United Kingdom (including work that is sub-contracted from other manufacturers), whether or not instructions for manufacture are given directly by the customer or through a broker or agent.
What are the benefits of signing up to the Waiver Agreement?
By signing up and adhering to the terms of the Agreement, you (the manufacturer) benefit in the following ways:
- We waive any rights that we may have to take action against you for copyright infringement where you have manufactured product (or authorised the manufacture of product) containing our repertoire for a third party who does not have the necessary licence(s) in place
- In certain circumstances, you will be able to manufacture product without seeing the clearance first, but still benefit from the waiver
- Your contact details will be published on our Recommended Manufacturers list. Record companies are currently directed to this dedicated page when we receive requests for recommended manufacturers.
View and download full details on the Waiver Agreement. Once you have signed up to the Agreement you can report your pressing activities using the pressing return.
Can we impose pressing bans under the terms of the new Waiver Agreement?
Yes. In exceptional cases, where we have reasonable grounds to believe that your customer has infringed or may infringe copyright by asking you to manufacture discs, we may implement a pressing ban. This will take the form of a written notice to you which states that we have not granted a licence to the relevant customer or that the customer’s licence does not cover the discs that it wishes to manufacture. It may also request that you cease production of certain discs.
Why do we ask for pressing returns?
We use the information contained within pressing returns to check that the correct licences are in place for discs that you manufacture and, where necessary, to contact the producer directly to rectify any inaccuracies in their application.
Further Information
Should you require any further information regarding the Waiver Agreement, contact the Licensing Team on 020 8378 7500 or via email: ap.info@mcps.co.uk