HC Deb 16 November 1982 vol 32 cc108-9W
Mr. Proctor

asked the Minister for Trade, pursuant to his reply of 26 October, Official Report, c. 371, to the hon. Member for Basildon, in what ways he has made it clear to the authorities in Taiwan that the British Government looks to them to take effective measures to eliminate the copying or counterfeiting of British goods.

Mr. Peter Rees

The United Kingdom has no diplomatic relations with Taiwan and direct representations are not possible. However, we understand that the Government's demand that copying and counterfeiting of British goods in Taiwan be stopped is now well know to the Taiwan authorities. As I said in reply to the hon. Member for Meriden (Mr. Mills) on 30 June 1982—[Vol. 26, c.303]—the new measures to deal with these offences introduced in Taiwan in 1980 and 1981 showed that the Government's warnings had been heeded, but we will not be satisfied until the problem has been eliminated.

A note will shortly be published in British Business giving advice to British manufacturers on measures which they can take to reduce the risk of counterfeiting in Taiwan.

Mr. Deakins

asked the Minister for Trade whether any steps are being contemplated by Her Majesty's Government to combat counterfeiting of British goods in Taiwan, other than direct approaches to Taiwan authorities.

Mr. Peter Rees

The Government remain seriously concerned about the counterfeiting of British goods in Taiwan and will maintain pressure on the Taiwan authorities by all available means to stamp out the practice. I understand that stricter controls on counterfeiting are to be introduced shortly by the Taiwan authorities and I shall be keeping a close watch on their effectiveness.

A note will shortly be published in British Business giving advice to British manufacturers on measures they can take to reduce the risk of counterfeiting in Taiwan.