§ Mr. ChannonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what parliamentary steps he proposes to take to implement the European Council first directive to approximate the law of member states relating to trade marks; and whether it is proposed that this directive should be in force by 28 December.
§ Mr. LeighThe White Paper, "Reform of Trade Marks Law", (Cm. 1203) indicates that legislation on trade marks which will include provisions in accordance with the first Council directive will be introduced as soon as the parliamentary timetable permits. If possible, a Bill will be introduced during the next Session of Parliament; otherwise rules under the European Communities Act 1972 will be necessary to give effect to the directive. It is not yet clear whether the date of entry into force of the directive will be deferred until the end of 1992 to await adoption of the regulation on the Community trade mark.
§ Mr. ChannonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what replies he has received in response to his White Paper on the reform of trade marks law; and if he will make a statement about the timing of any proposed new legislation.
§ Mr. LeighThirty-one representations concerning the proposals in the Department of Trade and Industry's White Paper, "Reform of Trade Marks Law", (Cm. 1203) have been received. The general tenor of the comments has been very favourable. Careful consideration is being given to the points raised.
As indicated in the White Paper new legislation on trade marks will be introduced as soon as the parliamentary timetable permits.