December date likely for Gowers report

Experts on the Intellectual Property (IP) law debate gathered today at the British Library to consider the implications and position the Gowers Review will take, writes Daniel Griffin.

However the first question on everyone’s lips was just when is the report by the former Financial Times editor going to be published? As the initial consultation period has been fairly open, the Government have been keeping their cards close to their chest on an announcement.

General consensus amongst the specialists was it will be no later than December 13 and likely to be mentioned in Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown’s pre-budget report, especially if there are significant financial implications.

The experts attending the British Library round table discussion ranged from a patent lawyer, inventor Roland Hill and assorted press as well as those from the British Library. The national library maintained its consistent approach of “honest broker” between commercial gain and public needs. Lynne Brindley, Chief Executive of the library highlighted the differences in culture and approach between the “born digital” and “digital immigrant” generations to the wider Intellectual Property (IP) debate.

A lively discussion on the wider implications of IP highlighted that it’s hoped Gowers will address. The business community was criticised for its lack of imagination in realising the entrepreneurial potential in the digital arena. Similarly European governments and IP owners themselves didn’t fair better with several voices advocating the Chancellor could position himself as a potential champion of fair IP rights and lead the UK’s example with wider international trade issues at the centre.

All agreed that the current state is greatly in need of an overhaul, and review, let’s hope that Gower’s delivers and sets a precedent for how to truly deal with IP effectively that pleases all sides.