HC Deb 15 February 1949 vol 461 cc148-9W
94. Dr. Stross

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the threat of unfair competition to the pottery industry from Japan; and whether he has any information to give on specific safeguards whereby Japanese manufacturers will be prevented from imitating British shapes and decorations and selling them as the products of British manufacturers.

Mr. H. Wilson

It is the policy of His Majesty's Government to take all possible steps to eliminate unfair methods of competition by Japan, whether in the pottery or other industries. As regards specific safeguards, General MacArthur has instructed the Japanese Patent Office to accept foreign applications for the registration of patents, utility models and designs. Applicants for such registration receive the benefits of the priority provisions of the International Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.