§ 5. Mr. Priorasked the President of the Board of Trade what representations have been made to the United States Government with regard to the proposals contained in the draft copyright Bill now before Congress; and whether he is aware of the consequences to the British printing industry of the changes contemplated.
§ Mr. RedheadRepresentations were made to the United States Government on certain aspects of the Bill introduced into Congress last July for the revision of United States copyright law. A revised Bill has since been introduced in which the intensified restrictions on imports which were contained in the so-called "manufacturing clause" in the original Bill appear to have been removed. My right hon. Friend is consulting Her Majesty's representatives in Washington about the precise implications of the revised Bill.
§ Mr. PriorWill the hon. Gentleman make another statement when he has more information? This is an important matter for the printing industry, and I am not quite certain whether his reply will remove their worries. Will he keep us informed of his latest representations?
§ Mr. RedheadI think that it is right to say that it appears that the version of the "manufacturing clause" in the Bill now before Congress provides for the maintenance of the present situation whereby United Kingdom reproduction pulls can be used for U.S. print. It is to verify that and make it absolutely clear that the present inquiries are made. I shall certainly see the hon. Members who are interested in this matter are advised of the outcome of those inquiries.