Whilst you can listen to an audio summary/podcast of the Gowers Review on IP rights and law by contacting us or by clicking here or pasting into your browser:
http://audiopostcard-005.com/X.asp?4825648X1166
the DTI has taken an early lead in developments by announcing £5m of new funding for an extra 4500 Trading Standards Officers to keep the look out for counterfeiters and video pirates.
The new law which commences from 6 April 2007 makes enforcement of copyright infringement the responsibility of Trading Standards Officers and will give them the power to test purchases, enter premises and inspect and seize goods and documents.
Counterfeiters cost the
Car boot sales and markets can expect greater scrutiny than in the past and IP counterfeiters now have an increased risk of prosecutions and convictions with sentencing of up to 10 years being possible with unlimited fines.
Trading Standards Officers welcome the move that give them increased powers.
Specifically there will be an early bringing into force of Article 107a of the Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988 which has followed on from one of the key Gowers review recommendations.
