Brussels, 19 Jan 2004
The UK government has unveiled plans to modernise its patent rules and bring them into line with the revised European Patent Convention.
The proposed amendments to the UK patent act include a provision that will enable the patent office to provide a non-binding opinion on patent infringement, and thereby settle disputes without parties having to resort to expensive litigation.
The bill will also ensure that the UK complies with the updated European Patent Convention, which the government says represents a reduction of bureaucracy and will help small companies do business across Europe.
UK Minister for Science and Innovation, David Sainsbury, said: 'The government is committed to improving the environment necessary to support and encourage innovation. Effective, flexible and up to date patent law is essential to help turn bright ideas into successful products and processes.'
For further information, please consult the following web address:
http://www.patent.gov.uk/about/consultat ions/responses/patact/index.htm