Commentary Part 1: DESIGNS Section 12: UK Registered designs – Use of directions by the registrar
45.This section enables the registrar to issue directions relating to the use of forms and to change the hours of business of the IPO in relation to designs matters, rather than having to rely on secondary legislation made by the Secretary of State. This brings the treatment of these design-related procedural matters in line with those relating to trade marks(8) and patents(9). Any directions issued by the registrar about the use of forms will be required to be published in a manner prescribed in rules, to ensure that the public continue to be aware of relevant changes.
46.Subsection (1) introduces a new section 31A into the RDA, which enables the registrar to issue directions relating to the use of forms.
47.Subsection (4) amends section 39(1) of the RDA so that the hours of business and excluded days may be specified by the registrar in directions, rather than by secondary legislation.
48.Subsections (5), (6) and (8) ensure that, until any new directions are given by the registrar, the current requirements as to forms and hours of business apply.