There's alot of agitation around software patents lately, and with good reason. Software patents are a serious impediment for software development, and the problem goes further than development too : it would be an open door for more restrictive measurements like enforced DRM, where for example, CDs that you buy would only be playable on certified equipment (not on your PC or car radio). Alan Cox, famous Linux hacker, has issued an open letter in which he asks to vote for members of parliament which are against software patents. Softwarepatenten.be has a nice list of Belgian MP's with their attitude towards software patents.