A number of pressure groups are now attracting high profile retailers and other support in a campaign to urge retailers to commission original designs rather than copy them.
European Parliament Rejects Global Anti-Piracy Treaty
Following a two-year wrangle between lawmakers trying to bolster the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) and lobbyists protesting against the erosion of the rights of the individual to privacy and free speech, the European Parliament last week overwhelmingly voted against ACTA, paving the way for what many say will be internet piracy on an overwhelming scale.
Unified Patent Court For Europe
As of 2014, inventors will be able to apply for one patent in 25 member states across Europe instead of registering their invention in each country individually, after years of wrangling over where the adjudicating court will be based.
Ofcom Cracks Down On Illegal Downloads
New controls on Internet privacy were outlined yesterday by the broadcasting regulator Ofcom under the Digital Economy Act 2010, which will require large internet services providers (ISPs) to send warning letters to people suspected of illegal downloads of copyright material.
Louis Vuitton Loses Case
Luxury bag manufacturer Louis Vuitton has lost its lawsuit in America against Warner Brothers for their use of a fake Louis Vuitton bag in their film The Hangover: Part II.