A controversial bill that could have far ranging implication for internest users has been given its second reading in the House of Commons.

The wide-ranging legislation, which includes controversial measures that could see the internet connections of illegal filesharers suspended or copyright-infringing websites blocked, will now head to the last minute "wash-up" period of fast-track negotiations before parliament is dissolved later this week.

The bill passed its second reading despite impassioned argument from many sides of the Commons that such far ranging piece of legislation should not be rushed through in such haste; skipping the committee stage which is designed to scrutinise such legislation.

The Bill which will impose a levy on copper landlines that is designed to finance the laying of more broadband cable, sets out a new role for Channel Four and a remit Ofcom, and relaxes copyright laws on ‘Orphan’ photographic work has many clauses which are controversial.

However, it is the section that deals with copyright, Clause 18, that caused the most angst. The objective of the clause was to protect the music and video industries from piracy. However, the sanctions which include suspending the internet accounts of persistent offenders, are to many a draconian attack on free speech.

Critics, including 20,000 people who have contacted their MPs to complain, say that the measures could hits small businesses and force a restriction on the available of free WiFi, as company owners will be responsible for the activity of their employees and customers.

In theory websites, which feature stolen copyright could also be closed, leading some to suggest that even the likes of Facebook and You-Tube could be suspended.

Despite their ‘reluctant support’ of this ‘washed-out bill from a washed out Government’ the Tories say that they will resort to secondary legislation to sort out in anomalies in the bill.

But opponents say that this is not how legislation should be created. The anomalies should be ironed out before its reaches the statute books.

The debate meant that many internet types found themselves glued to the BBC’s Democracy Live service – perhaps for the first time – which screened the debate live.

Twitter was abuzz with commentary including:

Morethan4: “A law passed in this way will have no legitimacy.”

Sirmo “sadly most of the 15 or so MPs who have bothered to turn up don’t seem to have a clue.”

Martsky: “All my mates make websites, are musos, film makers, photogs, designers or artists, why do I know none of them support this shambles?”

Blogibiza “Watching this debate really shows you how much they are living in cloud cuckoo land!!! Bizarre.”