HC Deb 18 June 1980 vol 986 cc511-2W
Mr. Clinton Davis

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will make a statement on the negotiations for the establishment of a European trade marks registry in London.

Mr. Eyre

The requirement for a European Community trade mark office depends upon the outcome of the Commission's proposal for the establishment of a Community trade mark system. This proposal is expected to be transmitted to the Council of Ministers in the next conjunction with other Government Departments in developing a view data system so as to improve marine communication and traffic control.

Mr. Eyre

My Department has been co-operating in a project sponsored by the Department of Industry to test the feasibility of such systems. A preliminary trial has been successful and it is expected that proposals for further trials of a more advanced nature will shortly be presented by the industry.