§ Mr. SalterTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what advisory structure he proposes for intellectual property following the recent review of the Standing Advisory Committee on Industrial Property. [158293]
§ Dr. HowellsI propose to reform the Standing Advisory Committee on Industrial Property in line with the recommendations of the recent review of SACIP. The review identifies a need for the Patent Office and DTI Ministers to have access to independent, horizon-scanning advice on intellectual property in the round, which would allow us to view policy in its broad economic and social context. The committee's name will be changed to the IP Advisory Committee. It will have new terms of reference and its remit will include copyright as well as patents, trade marks and designs. Members will be appointed in accordance with the guidance from the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments.