§ Mr. TynanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what powers she has to ensure that the Patent Office acts in a fair and impartial way. [42753]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonThe Patent Office is an Executive Agency of the Department of Trade and Industry. The Agency Framework Document sets out the functions, aims and objectives of the Patent Office. It also lists the legislation under which the Patent Office has specific responsibility for the administration of domestic and international law on intellectual property. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry determines the policy framework within which the Patent Office operates, sets out key financial and performance targets and approves the Agency's Corporate Plan. Day to244W day management of the Patent Office is delegated to the Chief Executive of the Agency. The decisions of the Patent Office are subject to statutory routes of appeal.
§ Mr. TynanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions her Department has had with Patent Office officials regarding a campaign by the charity ActionAid. [42752]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonDTI officials were contacted by the Patent Office at the beginning of February, about the campaign by the charity ActionAid. Patent Office staff dealt with subsequent media inquiries regarding the campaign.