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Universities and libraries heaved a sigh of relief this week as the European Parliament passed legislation to harmonise copyright law across Europe.

MEPs rejected all but a few amendments to the draft regulations. The legislation retains the right to fair dealing and a list of exceptions which are seen as crucial by universities and libraries.

However, there was concern over the provision and use of electronic information - the new rules allow exceptions to copyright to be overridden by individual contracts.

The directive will be ratified next month and must then be implemented by member states within 18 months.