The Summer 2011 Law Network Event treated guests to an evening of contrasts. We were very fortunate to be given presentations by both Mr Chris Case, Senior Officer in Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service specializing in the investigation and management of explosives-related incidents, and Mr Fahd Al-Hemyari, who is currently researching for his PhD in Trademark Protection in the Arabian Gulf States

As a serving officer with the Fire and Rescue Service and Vice President of the Institute of Explosives Engineers, Chris Case has been at the forefront of the development of policies and legislation dealing with the importation of illegal fireworks. His talk explored the various mechanisms employed by the Fire and Rescue Service, Police Force and other agencies in dealing with the criminal applications to which fireworks may be put. The presentation dealt not only with the physical impact of fireworks on the community but also the legislative and regulatory difficulties that are present within the UK - such as the distinction between a 'firework' and an 'IED'.

After such an explosive start to the evening the Network were introduced to Mr Fahd Al-Hemyari, whose talk focused on the many difficulties that accompany the understanding and enforcement of the protection of intellectual property within the Gulf Region. Fahd brought a clear insight into the complexities of dealing with both Sharia Law and 'Western' law structures in respect of intellectual property particularly in respect of counterfeit pharmaceutical goods and agrichemicals, both of which represent public health problems.

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