8. Mr. Atkinsasked the President of the Board of Trade what proposals he has for implementing the recommendations of the Johnston Committee on the protection of industrial designs.
§ Mr. DarlingAt present none, Sir.
Mr. AtkinsIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a considerable need for legislation to implement the recommendations of the Johnston Committee? A number of manufacturers, for example, those in the toy industry, are suffering considerable embarrassment through the copying of their designs by foreigners, and they are wondering whether it is worth while employing highly paid and qualified designers under the present circumstances.
§ Mr. DarlingI would not quarrel with a word of the hon. Gentleman's question, but the answer lies on the Order Paper. If hon. Members look at it, they will see that 10 questions to the Board of Trade contain requests for legislation. I assure the hon. Gentleman that it is not reluctance on our part which frustrates his request. We have not adapted our Parliamentary procedures to suit these demands.