Brexit: UKIPO says UK remains a member of the UPC ‘at present’
The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) said the UK will remain a member of the Unified Patent Court (UPC) and unitary patent agreement for the time being, following the UK’s vote to leave the EU.
The IPO published guidance today, August 2, about the future of intellectual property following the UK’s referendum vote on June 23 when the country voted by 52% to 48% in favour of leaving the union.
Brexit will not affect the current European Patent Convention, the IPO said, adding that it will also remain a member of the UPC “at present” and will continue to attend UPC meetings.
“There will be no immediate changes”, the office added.
For trademarks, the IPO said that UK rights owners “can continue to protect their IP abroad” and that European Union trademarks (EUTMs) and registered Community designs will continue to be valid in the UK while it remains part of the union.
The government is exploring “various options” about the long term clarity of EUTMs and will be “consulting users of the system about the best way forward,” it added.
While the UK remains in the EU it will continue to comply with EU copyright directives, but “the continued effect of EU directives will depend on the terms of our future relationship,” the office said.
According to the IPO, the government is “currently working through the steps” of joining the Hague Agreement, which protects industrial designs.
WIPR has published several articles on the Brexit vote. A selection can be found below.
EPO expects unitary patent ratification despite ‘Brexit’
UK IP minister offers ‘Brexit’ reassurances
Allen & Overy applies for ‘Brexit Law’ TMs
