Analysis of replies to the Consultation Paper on the Patentability of Computer-Implemented Inventions

On 19 October 2000, the European Commission launched consultations via the Internet on the patentability of computer-implemented inventions. Interested parties, the public at large and Member States were invited to comment by 15 December 2000 on the basis of a consultation paper . The aim of the consultation was to help the Commission to identify the best approach to the issue so as to strike the right balance between promoting innovation and ensuring adequate competition in the market place. At the top of that webpage, those commenting on the Commission’s consultation paper were asked to indicate whether or not they agreed to their comments being published by the Commission, either "as is", or without their name, address etc. Answers from authors who agreed to publication have been reproduced here: responses to consultation. 

A total of nearly 1450 responses were received before the closing date. These have been analysed by an independent contractor and summarised in a report which has been made available to the public.

Analysis of the Consultation – Full text:

Furthermore, the United Kingdom Patent Office carried out a consultation on the question as to whether or not patents should be granted for computer software or ways of doing business. For further information, please visit the website of the UK Patent office.