§ Mr. Matesasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what are his plans for legislation with regard to intellectual property; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PattieThe Government will introduce a Bill based on the proposals in the recent White Paper "Intellectual Property and Innovation" (Cmnd. 9712) when the parliamentary timetable permits. Drafting of those clauses of this highly complex Bill which relate to copyright, performers' protection and designs is to continue, and we plan to circulate these for consultation with experts and interested parties in due course.