A DEAL that will see part of a European patent court come to the UK will create new opportunities in Newport, according to the prime minister.

David Cameron, writing to Newport West MP Paul Flynn, said an agreement on a European unified patent court was a great outcome for the whole of the UK.

The agreement between 25-European countries means that the London section of the court, which will have overall responsibility for litigation in the pharmaceutical sector.

Mr Flynn asked the prime minister in the House of Commons how many jobs could come to Newport, in light of the Intellectual Property Office's headquarters in the city.

In response Mr Cameron wrote: "The deal supports our economic growth, creates new opportunities for patent professionals and businesses based across the UK, including the Newport area."

Mr Cameron added that there was still significant further work required over the coming months to establish operational details with counterparts across Europe.

Mr Flynn said a world class service has been being delivered brilliantly at the Newport patents office for many years.

"If there's any expansion taking place you might as well come to the place where the expertise is, here in Newport," he said.

"It's making sure that the prime minister and everyone else is aware of it."