Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the Digital Opportunity: Independent Review of IP and Growth report?

The Prime Minister announced the Independent Review of IP and Growth, led by Professor Ian Hargreaves, in November 2010. It had a remit to look at barriers the IP system may present, with a particular emphasis on new internet companies. The Review has now reported to Government and the full report (1.38Mb) is now available.

Q: What does the Government think of the Review?

The Government warmly welcomes the Independent Review of IP and Growth. It has covered a lot of ground in the short space of time allocated to it. Professor Ian Hargreaves confirms the great importance of IP to the UK economy, suggesting his proposals could add up to 0.6 per cent to annual economic growth and cut the costs of doing business with IP by £750m a year.

Q: Will the Government respond to the Review?

The Government will publish its substantive response to the Independent Review of IP and Growth before the summer parliamentary recess.

The Government wants to reflect on and consider the Review’s findings and come forward as quickly as possible with a well-thought out response. Where opportunities for growth exist, the Government must act as soon as possible to ensure those opportunities are realised. The Government Response will reflect the need for any further consultation.

Q: Will the Government be consulting on the Review report?

In considering the Government response, it will be important to understand reactions to the Independent Review of IP and Growth but we do not intend to repeat the extensive consultation process that the Review conducted over the last six months. Ian Hargreaves and his team took evidence from a wide-range of people, including nearly 300 written submissions to their Call for Evidence and via over 100 meetings with interested parties.

The Government Response will reflect the need for any further consultation.