Fathers4Justice have been threatened with legal action by the London Borough of Barnet over their “McDads” campaign which launches on Father’s Day.

In a letter to Fathers4Justice from the Trading Standards Department of Barnet Council dated 11th March, it is claimed the group is advertising merchandise for sale on its web site it is not authorised to use, citing “McDad” t-shirts and “McPants” boxer shorts: https://www.fathers-4-justice.org/shop/

The letter claims that McDonalds have not consented for Fathers4Justice to use the Golden Arches logo and “I’m Lovin’ It” trade marks and that the organisation is committing an offence under Section 92(1)(a) of the Trade Marks Act 1994. Barnet Council say F4J must immediately cease the sale and/or offering for sale of the products.

Fathers4Justice have said it’s unclear what jurisdiction Barnet Council have on the matter. The group have accused the borough of using taxpayers money to represent a $25 billion dollar US corporation which has been accused of dodging €700 million of taxes across Europe, as well as contributing to an obesity epidemic.

The group say their McDads campaign is a cultural satire on the demonisation and denigration of dads and is raising awareness of a major social issue in the UK in the run up to Father’s Day. They say the term “McDads” is a commonly used social phrase and metaphor which describes the alienation and desperation many fathers feel after being separated from their children.

The group say the campaign is clearly a parody and is protected under the Human Rights Act 1998, Article 10, freedom of expression, and that it is the responsibility of McDonald’s to enforce their trademarks if they believe there is a breach, not the councils.

Fathers4Justice also claim the council has an appalling track record of failing children and families.

Said Fathers4Justice founder, Matt O’Connor, “Can’t McDonalds afford their own lawyers?”

“This is a stupid and ill considered legal threat. It beggars belief that Barnet Council is using public money to aid an obscenely wealthy US corporation in threatening to prosecute an organisation which supports thousands of fathers and families in the UK.”

“Taxpayers in Barnet will be asking why the council doesn’t spend more time safeguarding children and families, rather than representing fat cat corporations.”

“We will not give in to bullying and threats, and will press ahead with the campaign regardless.”