How long does copyright last in the UK?

In the UK, copyright protection for original works generally lasts for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years. This duration is specified under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 and is designed to provide a fair balance between protecting the rights of creators and allowing public access to creative works after a reasonable period.

Under the current law, if a work has multiple authors, the copyright lasts for the life of the last surviving author plus 70 years. This extended term encourages creators by ensuring that their heirs or estates can benefit from their work for a significant time after their death.

The other options, which suggest a duration of 50 years or fewer, do not align with the current legislative framework regarding copyright in the UK and would not adequately protect the financial interests of authors and their families. The longer duration of copyright spans allows works to remain under protection for a substantial period, incentivizing creativity and investment in the arts and culture.