HC Deb 24 October 1978 vol 955 cc805-6W
Mr. Dodsworth

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will make a statement on his recent efforts and progress relating to the siting of the European Community Trade Mark Office in London.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The proposed Community trade-mark law is still in the early stages of negotiation and the Commission is therefore not expected to give consideration as to the location of the Trade Mark Office for some time. Nevertheless, the Government have made clear to their Community partners their wish to locate the office in London. No offer of a particular site has been made. As indicated in my answer to the hon. and learned Member for Bradford, West (Mr. Lyons) on 21st July, the Government have a prestige site in Bloomsbury Square in mind. We are following the usual procedures for obtaining planning permission and have become aware that there are likely to be public objections to the proposal. Until this has been cleared up the House will understand that further progress will be delayed.

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