The Automotive Distribution Federation (ADF) is calling on UK government representatives to campaign for the inclusion of the Repairs Clause in the European Commission’s proposal for EU design rights legislation.

The ADF maintains that the clause is essential to maintaining a competitive market in the UK, where the Copyright, Designs and Patents (CDP) Act of 1988 mirrors the Repairs Clause.

“We are concerned at reports that some EU member states’ representatives are exerting intense pressure on other states where UK-type CDP rules are not the norm,” says Brian Spratt, chief executive at the ADF.

“In particular, those recent accession states that seek inward investment from the major motor companies are finding the national government representatives attempting to influence their decision on the inclusion of the Repairs Clause.”