Relative grounds for refusal - Notification opt-in fee

The consultation propose the introduction of a fee for holders of CTMs and International-EC marks wishing to `opt-in’ to the new search and notification system proposed to be implemented in October 2007. Holders of earlier UK marks and International marks protected specifically in the UK will be notified automatically by the Office about any subsequent requests by third parties to protect later filed conflicting marks at national level. Holders of such marks will not have to ask to receive such notifications or pay any new fees.

The consultation is directed to all interested parties.