By Deborah Kirk

The Delegated Legislation Committee’s (DLC) support for the Unified Patent Court (Immunities and Privileges) Order 2017 (the Order) suggests a swift approval of the Order by the House of Commons. Presuming a rapid approval by the House of Lords thereafter, this could mean the Unified Patent Court Agreement (UPC Agreement) is ratified by the end of 2017 or early 2018.

The DLC met to discuss the Order and passed the motion unanimously. The next stage is for the House of Commons to approve the motion. Following approval, the motion will have to pass through the House of Lords before the UPC Agreement can be ratified. The ratification discussion is scheduled for 6 December 2017.