§ * MR. JOSEPH LAWRENCE (Monmouth Boroughs)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade, having regard to the effect on British industries owing to the conditions in this country under which foreign manufacturers can introduce patented articles without working, and in view of the answer he gave to a question put by the hon. Member for Monmouth Boroughs on the 15th August last, whether he will now reconsider this matter; and whether he is now prepared to take steps, by legislation or otherwise, to compel foreign patentees to work their patents in this country, just as 1272 British manufacturers of patented articles are compelled to work their patents in Continental countries.
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. GERALD BALFOUR,) Leeds, CentralThe proposals of the Government with reference to this subject are contained in the Patent Law Amendment Bill now before the House, but, as I stated when introducing the Bill, I am ready to consider any representations that may be made to me with respect to the details of the measure. I understand that the views favoured by my hon. friend are to be laid before me by a deputation from the Manchester Chamber of Commerce next week.