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Poland halts copyright law after mass protests

Poland halts ratification of international Internet copyright law under mass protests

By The Associated Press

WARSAW, Poland (AP) ' Poland's prime minister says he is suspending the ratification process for an international copyright treaty after widespread protests and attacks on government websites.

Donald Tusk said Friday that first a wider discussion must be held on the issue to include Internet users and privacy protection office.

The government signed the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement, or ACTA, late last month but it must still be approved. Tusk says Parliament may not do so if it conflicts with Polish law.

The U.S., Japan and others say the treaty is needed to fight trade in pirated material.

Poland is the only country that has seen major opposition to the treaty. Opponents say it will restrict Internet free speech and allow online surveillance.