asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether the mark "F.F." used by the National Army on Army property is registered in Germany in the name of a private firm?

A complaint as to the improper registration in Germany of a mark in use by the National Army was received by me at the end of October. The matter was taken up with the German Consul-General, who has learned from his Government that the firm in question have expressed their regret at having registered the mark, and consented to the annulment of the registration.

Arising out of that answer, can the Minister state when it is the intention of the Government to introduce the Merchandise Marks Bill?

The Merchandise Marks Act is already in force in the country. The Deputy is probably referring to the Industrial Property Protection Bill.

And the Patent Designs Bill?

The Industrial Property Protection Bill includes patents, copyrights, trade marks, and designs. It is now in draft and will be introduced on resumption next Session.