This guide provides information on how design applications are examined in respect of national applications filed at the UK Intellectual Property Office.

• Part A: Introduction

  Includes introduction and purpose of this guide.

• Part B: Absolute grounds for refusal

  Includes chapters on definition of a design, novelty and individual character, technical function, morality and emblems.

• Part C: Formalities

  Includes chapters on applications, modification, priority and convention claims, illustrations and disclaimers.

• Part D: The examination reportreport, andexamination post-examination procedures and post-registration

  Includes time limits, examination and withdrawals.

• Part E: Hague Agreement for the International Registration of Industrial Designs

  Includes chapters on applying for International registrations, design representation, deferment of publication, examination, refusals and renewals.

• Part F: Locarno classification

  Includes classifying designs under the Locarno system.

• Part G: Glossary

  The glossary contains a short explanation of terms and abbreviations, contained within the manual.