Customs officers may be given more time to investigate complicated copyright infringement cases under a new proposal, Assistant Commissioner of Customs & Excise Leung Koon-wah says.

Copyright investigations can be lengthy, particularly when they involve overseas parties or assignment of rights under licence contract. The Copyright (Amendment) Bill 2006 includes a suggestion to amend the time limit for taking prosecution from within one year to within three years of the offence.

Mr Leung said Customs is committed to taking rigorous enforcement action against piracy and is devoted to promoting public awareness of copyright protection and supporting the local creative industry.

Officers will handle each case speedily and act in accordance with the law. Advice and guidance will also be sought from the Department of Justice when needed. Legal proceedings will be instituted when sufficient evidence has been collected for prosecution.

Customs will review investigation and prosecution procedures to enhance law enforcement efficiency and bring offenders to justice.