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Software patents make a mockery of European ideals
Whole countries opposed it, its proponents couldn't explain it, and its own parliament called for it to be completely reconsidered. Twice.Therefore, the European Council decided to approve it. Barring an exceptional parliamentary earthquake, the Computer Implemented Inventions Directive will be rubber-stamped by the European Parliament and will in time become law across the Union. It seems Bill Gates got more than a regal tap on the shoulder when he was visiting last week: if these are the punishments for heading a company convicted in Europe and America for anti-trade monopoly abuse, let us hope he is never rewarded.
For those of us who believe in freedom to innovate, this is a sad day. It is even sadder for those who stand by the ideals which gave birth to the modern Europe, and believe that our institutions act on our behalf against powerful self-interests.
But the battle's not over quite yet. Those who do fight for us need our active support, now more than ever. We must try, Europe-wide, to get the majority vote in Parliament that can overturn the directive. UK readers can contact their MEPs via writetothem.com. Make that effort now, before software patents become enmeshed in national law and then in untouchable international treaties
Source: ZDNet UK
