HC Deb 26 October 1916 vol 86 cc1300-1
74. Mr. RENDALL

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that British engineers, by placing their whole plant and energies at the disposal of the Government for the manufacture of munitions, have been prevented from producing many of their patented productions; that the annual renewing fees for such patents are still payable and paid; that the periods for which these patents exist are nevertheless running out; and will he bring in legislation to so extend existing patents as to substitute additional time during which a patent shall run for the period during which the manufacturer is prevented from producing it owing to the nation's call on his services?

Mr. PRETYMAN

Proposals for dealing with this matter will be included in the measure amending the Patents and Designs Act, which I hope to be in a position to introduce before very long.