Clause 7 - Restrictions on applications abroad by United Kingdom residents
Patents Bill
11:15 am
Mr Brian Cotter (Shadow Minister (Trade & Industry), Trade & Industry; Weston-Super-Mare, Liberal Democrat)
I beg to move amendment No. 14, in clause 7, page 3, line 42, leave out 'national security' and insert
'the defence of the realm'.
I want to highlight a concern of mine that others share. The amendment is clear in expressing concern that the comptroller can make directions in any circumstances in which there is a need to protect the national security interest of the United Kingdom. The phrase ''national security'' is much wider-ranging than ''defence of the realm'', and it could be interpreted as being a much more intangible test. I ask the Minister to clarify why the Government feel it necessary to make a change of wording; there must be some reason for it. I would like him to justify it, because there are concerns that we are slightly tinkering at the edges of issues of security and the protection of individual rights.