The Canadian Patent Office has posted proposed revisions to the Manual of Patent Office Practice (MOPOP) chapter relating to Final Action Practice. The proposed changes relate to the proposed amendments to the Patent Rules on Final Actions published last week.

CIPO has opened consultation on the proposed MOPOP Chapter 12 until November 23, 2012 which incorporate amendments to the Patent Rules that were published in the Canada Gazette last week.

The proposed amendments, both to MOPOP and the Patent Rules would allow amendments after a Final Action to address deficiencies and make clarifications. The changes would also expand the available options for the Patent Appeal Board, including requiring amendments from the applicant or allowing the application.