Media & Parliamentary Activities
MPs HEAR FROM TRADERS ON HOW TO PROTECT MARKETS FROM DANGEROUS FAKE GOODS
The All-Party Parliamentary Intellectual Property Group heard from market representatives on how to stamp out counterfeit goods, and protect consumers and legitimate businesses in the process on December 13th.
MPs heard how the Real Deal Campaign, a cross-sector, partnership initiative is bringing together local authorities, trading standards services, market operators and traders, industry groups and copyright and trademark owners, to tackle intellectual property theft and reclaim markets from fakes.
John Whittingdale MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Intellectual Property Group, said:
“The Real Deal Campaign has been instrumental in promoting fake-free markets and raising awareness of the damage counterfeits cause, from dodgy UGG boots to dangerous fake GHD hair straighteners. Often these are sold not just by harmless Del Boys, but to finance organised criminal gangs.
“It is really encouraging to see the enthusiasm of so many people, both policymakers and market representatives, who are committed to stamping out these counterfeit goods, especially in the run-up to Christmas. We would urge every local authority to sign up to the Real Deal Charter, and help keep the tradition of the great British market alive.”
Thus far, 189 markets are covered by the Charter, but many local authorities are yet to sign up. Those who have signed up have seen an increase in shoppers, as they return to a market they can trust.
For more information on the Real Deal, contact Patricia Lennon on 01943 816292.
All Party IP Group submission to Ian Hargreaves Review of IP and Growth – March 2011