The message did not convince critics of the proposed Directive, however, who heard the announcement at a meeting on Tuesday with Lord Sainsbury, the Minister for Science & Innovation, and Patent Office officials.
The Directive seeks to harmonise European rules on the patentability of computer-implemented inventions – devices like mobile phones, intelligent household appliances, engine control devices, machine tools and computer program-related inventions.
But many are concerned that the Directive risks bringing to Europe the more liberal regime of software and business method patenting that exists in the US, with consequent effects on innovation and the survival rates of small businesses.
The Government, according to Lord Sainsbury, is committed to a patent system that fosters and supports innovation in all areas of technology, including inventions that rely on software.
"Patents provide the confidence to invest in R&D for technological industries and the current draft Directive will ensure that Europe continues to strike the right balance and provides clarity as to what can and cannot be patented with regard to computer-implemented inventions," said Lord Sainsbury. "It does not change anything, but maintains the status quo."
"Changes in patent practice in the US in the last five years have caused concern in some areas of the computer industry and the Directive will ensure that Europe continues on its own path which is a balanced approach that both creates a climate for innovation and supports open source software," he added.
According to reports, other participants in the meeting were disappointed with the Government's stance on the issue, claiming that critical definitions in the Directive are so vague that they will lead inevitably to the patenting of software.
Not so, said Patent Office officials, pointing to the European Court of Justice as the ultimate authority on what will, or will not, amount to a software patent.
In the meantime, according to a report by The Register, the Government has acknowledged that the issue needs to be looked at in greater detail, and is considering setting up a workshop to allow proper consideration of the meanings of these critical terms.
Elsewhere, the draft Directive inches towards approval. According to reports, the draft, which was expected to be rubber-stamped by the Council of Ministers before now, may not be delayed much longer.
To the outrage of anti-patent activists, it appears that the draft has been added to the agenda of one the last two Council meetings to be held before the end of the year, relating to the Environment or to Agriculture and Fisheries.
It will then go back to the European Parliament for a second reading early next year, where it is certain to receive a rough reception, following the Council's deletion of most of the Parliament's previous amendments to the draft.