Copyright and IP Changes Imminent

The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill has now received Royal Assent.

One of the more important changes for industry is that creative designs which are used in an industrial process will be protected for the life of the creator plus 70 years.

The other change of major importance is that the exceptions to copyright will be extended, to enable copyright items to be reproduced for educational and research purposes. The Act gives the Government the ability to change the applicable rules through new regulations, without the need for formal legislation.

In a knowledge-based economy, protection of intellectual property rights is essential. Contact Clare Towers for practical advice.