backporting GPLv3 packages

[Robert Millan <rmh@aybabtu.com>]

Hi,

Please note that there are a couple of important things that should be taken
into consideration when backporting GPLv3 packages.  Because GPLv3 was only
added to /usr/share/common-licenses atfer etch (in base-files 4.0.1), packages
that follow the usual convention of referring to common-licenses will suddenly
be found with either:

  - a link to an incorrect license (if they refer to .../GPL for gplv3-or-later)
  - a broken link (if they refer to .../GPL-3 for gplv3-only)

Of course, if this is properly handled in the package, you should expect a
versioned dependency on "base-files (>= 4.0.1)".  But I wouldn't take this for
granted.

I would recommend that some reminder note is added to the upload guidelines in:

  http://backports.org/dokuwiki/doku.php?id=contribute

Ah, btw, a base-files 4.0.1 backport has just been uploaded and it is pending
approval.

-- 
Robert Millan

<GPLv2> I know my rights; I want my phone call!
<DRM> What use is a phone call, if you are unable to speak?
(as seen on /.)