§ Chris RuaneTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many patents were taken out by British universities in each of the last 20 years; how many patents funded from public services have resulted in the development of commercial products in each of the last 20 years; and how much public funding has been allocated to developing products from patents taken out by British universities in each of the last 20 years. [133824]
§ Ms HewittI have not been able to answer this question before Prorogation. I will write to my hon. Friend and place a copy in the Libraries of the House.
1435W
§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what representations she has had from the European Federation of Journalists on the European Directive on patenting computer-related inventions; and if she will make a statement. [140196]
§ Ms HewittThe patentability of computer-implemented inventions has been the subject of a wide-ranging consultation exercise, and submissions on the proposed Directive have been received from individuals, companies and representative bodies. However we have not been able to trace any representations from the European Federation of Journalists. If you are aware of such a communication I would be grateful for further information.