Beano accuses Jacob Rees-Mogg of IP infringement

The Beano has written an open letter to Jacob Rees-Mogg, accusing the eccentric Conservative MP of ‘infringing the intellectual property rights’ of one of their cartoon characters and ‘masquerading as Walter Brown’ (aka Walter the Softy).

The letter goes on: ‘It is evident that there are numerous instances whereby you have adopted trademarked imagery and brand essences of the character to the benefit of enhancing your career and popularity’.

If anyone is unsure of what these essences are, the letter lists seven points they believe are attributes of the character of Walter the Softy, which are being copied by Rees-Mogg:

1. The character’s hair parting and style
2. The character’s distinctive round reading glasses
3. The character’s choice of spotty ties and vintage apparel
4. The character’s enjoyment of classical music (because he thinks it makes him seem clever)
5. The character’s bullish behaviour with peers and stopping others from having fun
6. The character’s insistence to remind others of his father’s successful career
7. Snootiness

It then asks that Rees-Mogg ‘cease and desist’ in the ‘ongoing impersonation of the character, which remains the exclusive property of Beano Studios’. Tongue firmly in cheek, Mike Stirling, head of Beano Studios Scotland, signs off ‘A swift response on this matter would be greatly appreciate to avoid getting Teacher involved.’

The letter, tweeted out from Beano’s official account, has been caused by keen-eyed readers who have brought the issue to the comic strip’s attention. Replies to the tweet are just as mischievous:

The “Where’s Wally” people should go after him too.

— ROU You might feel a sharp scratch (@borismonster) April 4, 2018

Have you sent a similar one, on behalf of Dennis the Menace, to #BorisJohnson ‘s barber?

— Hugh Osborne (@HughRSOsborne) April 4, 2018

Many have applauded the Beano for a ‘perfect PR stunt’ and their great sense of fun. Rees-Mogg has yet to respond to the letter, much to the Beano’s disappointment.