National security checks on applications filed at the Intellectual Property Office

The Intellectual Property Office checks every application filed to identify whether it contains information which, if published, would be prejudicial to national security or the safety of the public. Guidance on what could be considered prejudicial to national security or the safety of the public is available.

A very small number of applications may become subject to directions under Section 22 of the Patents Act which place restrictions on, for example, the disclosure of the application to any third party or filing equivalent applications abroad.

Applications where directions under s22 are known to be required, for example when a Government department or a foreign government requires secrecy, or applications which relate to a classified Government contract, should be filed directly to:

Security Section, Room GR70

Intellectual Property Office
Concept House
Cardiff Road
Newport
South Wales
NP10 8QQ
United Kingdom

Facsimile transmission or electronic filing should not be used. Such applications may be filed by hand at Newport or London in envelopes marked "for attention of Room GR70" but only during opening hours and the receptionist should be informed that the application is for GR70 rather than the usual Front Office.

Further guidance on applications placed under Section 22 directions is also available.

If you require further advice on making an application which may be prejudicial to national security or public safety, please contact Security Section at the above address, or by telephone on +44 (0) 1633 813558 or fax on +44 (0) 1633 814415.