Lammy helps negotiate breakthrough on new European Patent

Innovative UK companies to save time and money

Companies looking to patent an invention in Europe will benefit from a new package agreed in Brussels today.

Following many years of debate at European level, a breakthrough meeting of European ministers at the Competitiveness Council finally agreed steps needed to create a single EU - wide patent. This is a great achievement by the Presidency and the Commission and a positive step forward for innovative business.

A new EU patent will save businesses money and time so they can get on with the business of innovation. EU studies predict that innovative companies stand to save at least EURO 150 million per year through a more efficient and cost effective patent system.

UK Minister for Higher Education and Intellectual Property David Lammy said:

"It is good news that we have been able to reach a deal today, and it is a significant step towards the single EU-wide patent that business has long called for.

"If Europe is serious about our knowledge economy being key to economic recovery, then patent reform is the essential underpinning.

"This business-friendly deal will make patenting and innovating easier and more affordable for British companies. In particular, innovative SMEs will have more flexibility when choosing how to patent across Europe"

Following this meeting, next year will see the UK working with other Member States to push hard for business-friendly solutions to the language arrangements and finalising the detailed arrangements for the patent court.

Date of release: 4 December 2009