Beckhams register daughter Harper's name as a trademark

David and Victoria Beckham have trademarked their five-year-old daughter's name, Harper Beckham, for exclusive commercial use.

The former Spice Girl turned fashion entrepreneur registered Harper's name with intellectual property authorities in Britain and Europe.

It means she can use it in any commercial product, from deodorant to dolls.

The name is also reserved for exclusive use in the entertainment industry, should a career in music, television or film await.

The application states that, as Harper's parent and guardian, Mrs Beckham is the holder of the rights.

Harper's trademark will not include her middle name Seven, which David previously explained was a nod to the number on his Manchester United and England shirts, while also symbolising spiritual perfection and the seven wonders of the world.

Harper is the most recent addition to 'Brand Beckham', an empire estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of pounds.

The couple have been married since 1999 and have four children together.

The names of Harper's older siblings Cruz, 12, Romeo, 14, and Brooklyn, 18, are also registered with the Intellectual Property Office and the European Union Intellectual Property Office.

Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan is one of those who have criticised the Beckhams for "putting these kids into the public domain while simultaneously saying privacy".

Morgan suggested Cruz, who put out a charity Christmas song in December , should be "going to school", not releasing singles.

In February, David Beckham also denied suggestions he and his wife stay together in order to maximise their money-making ability.

"People have talked about, you know, 'do we stay together because it's a brand?'" he told BBC Radio 4.

"Of course not. We stay together because we love each other; we stay together because we have four amazing children, and do you go through tough times? Of course you go through tough times," he added.

"It's part of relationships, it's part of marriages, it's part of having children, it's part of having responsibilities."