A new European patents court to decide on issues involving pharmaceuticals and chemistry will be in London. The unitary patent court is for 25 of the European Union countries which are pressing ahead for plans to create a framework to enable a single patent application having effect across the entire EU. The two countries which have not joined in are Spain and Italy because of their concerns over their languages being sidelined under the new system (in which English, French and German will be the key languages for the patents). The European Council statement can be read here: http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ec/131388.pdf.
Paul Gershlick, a Partner and Head of Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences at Matthew Arnold & Baldwin LLP, comments: “The decision to hold a specialised court in London is a tremendous boost to the life sciences industry in the UK. It will help to set London up as a hub in this specialised field. A European-wide patent through a single application will also boost innovation in life sciences in Europe at a time when innovation has been facing increased challenges.”
The Prime Minister also welcomed the move. David Cameron said: “A vital part of the court covering the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries, in which Britain excels, will be coming to London. This brings millions of pounds and hundreds of jobs.”