"Once again, the Administration has truly stepped up to the plate to demonstrate its commitment to protect musicians, songwriters, record labels and the music they work so hard to create. Given the growing sophistication of today’s music piracy trade, taking the profit out of crime is now more important than ever."

It continued:

“Over the past year, we have seen major advancements in both policy and personnel focused specifically on safeguarding our nation’s intellectual property. We look forward to seeing those ideas continue to take shape and are grateful for the US government’s support in protecting our ability to invest in new music.”

The Justice Department last week put forward proposals for tougher copyright protection provisions.

Outlining the content of new legislation at a recent anti-piracy summit, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales revealed that even failed attempts to copy and distribute copyrighted material will be covered by the bill.

Investigators would also be permitted to seize assets purchased with profits from copyright infringing activities, Mr Gonzales revealed, going on to add that:

"This legislation is a reflection of the sustained commitment on the part of the Bush administration, including the Department of Justice, to ensure that we are doing everything we can to combat this problem."