The Patent Office says new Copyright Tribunal Chair will benefit intellectual property legal system

The Chief Executive of The Patent Office, Ron Marchant welcomed the appointment of Judge Michael Fysh QC as the new Chair of the Copyright Tribunal from 10 March.

The new role will mean that Judge Fysh, who is already a judge at the Patents County Court, will strengthen his role in United Kingdom (UK) intellectual property legal decisions.

Mr Marchant said:

"Michael Fysh has tremendous experience in Intellectual Property. This position will mean that he will bring his vast intellectual property law knowledge to resolve copyright disputes as well. We welcome a judge who has already made such an outstanding contribution to the IP legal system."

Judge Fysh takes over at the Copyright Tribunal from retiring Judge Christopher Tootal who was appointed as the Chair in 1997.

Ron Marchant said:

"Christopher Tootal brought many benefits to the copyright tribunal service during his time with the court. He increased the respect for its judgements, provided a fair and even-handed approach to parties prior to the cases and also ensured that the system worked smoothly. We at the Patent Office wish him all the best in his retirement."

Date of release: 08 March 2006