Internet users who download films or television series could face suspended services as Internet Service Providers (ISPs) come under pressure to halt the illegal download business.

ISPs are being called into negotiations in the new year over plans by film companies to stop the connection of customers breaking the law.

But speaking to the Times, the Internet Service Providers Association (ISPA), said: "ISPs are no more able to inspect and filter every single packet passing across their network than the Post Office is able to open every envelope."

A cross-party committee of MPs has argued that ISPs have accepted that this material should be restricted and their report has been welcomed by the government.

Some ISPs have shown willing to help with the problem; Virgin Media told the newspaper: "As a responsible ISP, Virgin Media would always openly negotiate with any interested party or governing body such as Ofcom."

But BT has not been so willing saying it is: "A matter for the rights holders and not for the ISPs."