WWF-UK Wildlife Overexploitation Research Tender
WWF-UK published a tender notice via UK Government Contracts Finder for research services on wildlife overexploitation and biodiversity. The contract runs from 29 May to 30 September 2026 with a budget of £20,000. Submissions are invited through the Coupa procurement platform; interest must be registered by 17 April 2026.
Cleaning Contractor - Bishop's Cleeve Parish Council (£22k)
Bishop's Cleeve Parish Council has published a tender notice for cleaning services at its facilities including office, community building and sports pavilion. The contract is valued at £22,000 with a closing date of 14 May 2026. The two-year service contract runs from June 2026 to May 2028 and is open to SMEs.
University Manchester Cabling Framework £3M
University of Manchester published a £3 million framework agreement for telecommunications network cabling installation, repair, and maintenance services. The framework will run from July 2026 to July 2031 with three contractor slots available. Applications close 13 May 2026 at 12pm.
A66 Highway Demolition Works - Competitive Tender Opportunity
Balfour Beatty published a contract notice for demolition works on the A66 road between Center Parcs Whinfell Forest and Temple Sowerby bypass. The contract is valued at £200,000 with a closing date of 20 April 2026 at 12pm. The procurement uses competitive procedure with negotiation above threshold and is suitable for SMEs.
Bradford Council Seeks Hazardous Chemical Waste Contractor, £75k
Bradford Council published a £75,000 service contract for collection and safe processing of chemical hazardous waste in Yorkshire and the Humber. The open procurement procedure allows any interested supplier to submit a tender. Bids close on 8 May 2026 with the contract running from 9 May 2026 to 10 May 2026.
A66 Reinforced Earth Installation, £200k, closing 20th Apr
Balfour Beatty has published a contract opportunity for reinforced earth installation works on the A66 highway between Centre Parcs Whinfell Forest development and Temple Sowerby bypass. The £200,000 contract closes on 20 April 2026 and runs from May 2026 to February 2028. The opportunity is open to SMEs under a competitive procedure with negotiation.
PEACEPLUS Camlough Rovers Football Fencing Upgrades Tender
UK Government Contracts Finder published a tender notice under the PEACEPLUS programme for supply and installation of 3m and 6m steel perimeter fencing at Camlough Rovers Football Club in Northern Ireland. The open procurement procedure closes 6 May 2026, with contract delivery scheduled 1-15 June 2026. SMEs are eligible to bid.
NOVUM Festival Event Safety, Production Management and Production Supply Contract Award
Newcastle City Council awarded a £913,650 contract to Tim Garbutt Events Ltd for event safety, production management and production supply services for the NOVUM Festival. The two-year contract runs from April 2026 to April 2028 with an optional 12-month extension. Seven tenders were received for this cultural event services contract.
Minor Works Tender - Babergh Mid Suffolk Councils
Babergh District Council and Mid Suffolk District Council have published a joint tender for Minor Works contracts. The estimated contract value is £11.5 million excluding VAT (£13.8 million including VAT) over a maximum 5-year term. The tender covers two geographic lots across both districts with a submission deadline of 11 May 2026.
Borough Bedding Plant Supply Procurement
Guildford Borough Council published a tender notice for the supply of bedding plants over four years, valued at £204,000 including VAT. The contract involves two annual orders for winter and summer plants with a possible two-year extension. Bidders must submit proposals electronically via the SE Shared Services portal by 20 May 2026 at noon.
IT2283 Foxit PDF Editor - Contract Award to Softcat PLC
Wiltshire Council has published a contract award notice under the Procurement Act 2023 for the purchase of Foxit PDF Editor licenses. The contract has been awarded to Softcat PLC for £44,755.20 including VAT, covering a period of approximately 11 months from April 2026 to March 2027. The procurement falls below the relevant threshold and was conducted under the 'Below threshold - unknown' procedure type.
Embedded Youth Violence Hospital Programme Contract Award
London Borough of Brent awarded a contract valued at £330,287 (including VAT) to St Giles Trust for delivery of an Embedded Youth Violence Hospital Programme. The programme will place 2 specialist case workers and 1 team leader at Northwick Park Hospital to provide intervention and support for young people involved in gang-related activity, knife crime, and serious youth violence. The contract runs from April 2026 to March 2028, with 2 tenders received under open competition.
Level 1 Dental Sedation Service Contract Award - £210k
NHS Essex Integrated Care Board awarded three contracts totalling £210,000 for Level 1 Dental Sedation Services in Mid and South Essex. The services provide basic conscious sedation (inhalation and single-drug intravenous) for children and adults undergoing routine dental treatment, following the Most Suitable Provider process under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023. Providers must comply with IACSD Standards for staff training, clinical environment, monitoring, and safe recovery.
Provision of a Young Carers and Young Adult Support Service in Gloucestershire
Gloucestershire County Council published a tender notice for the Provision of a Young Carers and Young Adult Support Service valued at £2,670,864 (including VAT). The 5-year contract runs from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2031, with options to extend up to 7 years. Bids must be submitted by 8 May 2026 via the Supplying the South West portal.
MSK Non AQP Physiotherapy Services Contract Modification - £68k
NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly ICB published a contract modification notice for MSK Non AQP physiotherapy services. The modification affects the existing contract with Ascenti Physio Limited (Contract C339161), originally valued at approximately £68,000 for services running from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2027. The notice (Reference: 2026/S 000-032118) was published on 8 April 2026 via the UK Find a Tender portal.
Carmarthenshire Council, EIR 5(2) breach, statutory response failure
Carmarthenshire Council, EIR 5(2) breach, statutory response failure
Met Police NCND Deceased Nazi, Security Exemption Upheld
The ICO issued a Decision Notice upholding the Metropolitan Police Service's refusal to confirm or deny holding information about a deceased Nazi sympathiser under FOIA section 23(5) (security bodies). The ICO found the MPS correctly applied the neither-confirm-nor-deny response, protecting sensitive national security and law enforcement information from disclosure.
Cabinet Office FOI Complaint Not Upheld - No Information Held
The Information Commissioner's Office investigated a Freedom of Information complaint against the Cabinet Office regarding a request for information about 'smashed gangs'. The Cabinet Office stated it did not hold information within scope of the request. The ICO upheld this position, finding no further steps required as the Cabinet Office's response complied with its obligations.
DAERA Fish Kill Protocol Withheld - Internal Review Timeliness Breach
The ICO issued a decision finding that DAERA was entitled to withhold a fish kill protocol under EIR 12(5)(g) (environmental protection) and EIR 13 (personal data). However, the ICO found that DAERA breached EIR 11(4) by not completing its internal review within the required timeframe. No further steps were required.
London Borough of Waltham Forest - FOIA Section 10 Breach
The ICO upheld a complaint against London Borough of Waltham Forest for failing to respond to a Freedom of Information request within the statutory 20-working-day timeframe, in breach of section 10 of FOIA. The authority must now provide a substantive response to the request and comply with its statutory obligations.
Northamptonshire Police FOI Complaint Upheld - Fresh Response Ordered
The ICO issued a Decision Notice finding Northamptonshire Police partially non-compliant with Freedom of Information Act obligations. The police must issue a fresh response to Q5 of the complainant's request regarding Developed Vetting information, either confirming/denying whether information is held and disclosing it or issuing a compliant refusal notice under section 17. The ICO dismissed the challenge regarding Q4 where section 21 exemption was correctly applied.
Staffordshire Police FOI Request - Fresh Response Ordered
The ICO upheld a complaint against Staffordshire Police under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. The ICO found that the force failed to conduct adequate searches for information requested by a complainant who sought specific correspondence. The ICO has ordered Staffordshire Police to issue a fresh response following proper searches aimed at identifying all information within scope.
UK Export Finance EIR Commercial Interests Exemption Decision
The Information Commissioner's Office issued a Decision Notice in case IC-403066-Y4P3 regarding a complaint against UK Export Finance. The complainant requested information about project financing, and UK Export Finance withheld certain information citing regulation 12(5)(a) of the Environmental Information Regulations. The ICO determined that UK Export Finance correctly applied the commercial interests exemption, and no further action is required.
Cheltenham Borough Council - Information Not Held (EIR 12(4)(a))
The ICO issued a Decision Notice finding that Cheltenham Borough Council did not act incorrectly in refusing an Environmental Information Regulations request for details about a potential loan for the Minster Exchange development project. The Commissioner determined that on the balance of probabilities, the requested information is not held by the council, allowing it to rely on regulation 12(4)(a) to refuse the request.
Hackney Council EIR Procedural Breaches Decision
The ICO issued a Decision Notice against London Borough of Hackney Council finding breaches of the Environmental Information Regulations. The Council failed to issue proper refusal notices under regulation 14(2) and failed to conduct internal reviews under regulation 11(2) when handling a request about the Future Shoreditch Area Action Plan. While the Council's reliance on regulation 12(4)(b) to refuse the request was upheld as valid, procedural failures constitute regulatory breaches.
London Borough of Redbridge - Councillor Property FOIA Decision
The ICO issued a Decision Notice regarding a Freedom of Information complaint against the London Borough of Redbridge. The ICO upheld the council's refusal to disclose addresses of rental properties owned by a former councillor under section 44(1)(a) (statutory prohibition). However, the ICO determined the council incorrectly withheld related correspondence under section 40(2) (personal data), meaning that material must now be disclosed.
The Road Races (North West 200) Order (Northern Ireland) 2026
The Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland) has made the Road Races (North West 200) Order 2026, which establishes the legal framework for the North West 200 road racing event. The Order sets out requirements for road closures, event permits, and traffic management measures for the international motorcycle road race held annually in Northern Ireland.
Tribunal Procedure (First-tier Tribunal) (Property Chamber) (Amendment) Rules 2026
The UK Tribunal Procedure Committee has made the Tribunal Procedure (First-tier Tribunal) (Property Chamber) (Amendment) Rules 2026, which amend the 2013 Property Chamber Rules to incorporate new jurisdiction under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 and provide for costs orders in appeals against financial penalties under sections 16I and 16K of the Housing Act 1988. The rules take effect on 1 May 2026.
Public Toilet Cleaning Contract Award - Monitor Cleaning
Buckinghamshire Council awarded a £2.73M public toilet cleaning contract to Monitor Cleaning Services Limited. The 3-year contract covers 25 public conveniences and car park facilities across Buckinghamshire, with potential extensions up to 6 years. Four tenders were received, all from SMEs.
Nairobi Railway City Technical Assistance - Procurement Termination
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office terminated a procurement for Nairobi Railway City Technical Assistance following identification of a material change in scope. The procurement under Section 55 of the Procurement Act 2023 is terminated with immediate effect. No contract will be awarded; FCDO will reassess requirements and re-tender the service.
PA23 UK4 procurement termination notice under Procurement Act 2023
PA23 UK4 procurement termination notice, 8th Apr
ILM Level 5 Coaching Mentoring Contract Award
Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust has awarded Mission Inc a £23,940 contract for ILM Level 5 Certificate in Effective Coaching and Mentoring training services for 10 people. The contract runs from February 17, 2026 to February 16, 2027. The procurement was conducted as a below-threshold award without competition under the Procurement Act 2023.
UK MOD Awards £1.02M Scoop Stretchers Contract to Ferno UK Ltd
The UK Ministry of Defence, through Leidos Supply Ltd, has awarded a contract valued at £1,020,000 (including VAT) to Ferno UK Ltd for the supply and support of scoop stretchers and C-spine immobilisation equipment to UK Armed Forces. The direct award justification cites Ferno as the OEM and sole distributor with exclusive import and distribution rights. The contract runs from May 2026 to May 2029.
Occupational Health Services Contract Award - Dacorum Borough Council
Dacorum Borough Council has published a contract award notice for occupational health services valued at £68,341.47 (excluding VAT). The contract was awarded to Optima Health UK Limited via the ESPO Framework Agreement 985B_23. The single-tender award was concluded on 27 September 2025, with performance based in Hertfordshire.
St George's New Build, Tower Hamlets, £72M Contract Award
The UK Government's Find a Tender service published a contract award notice for the St George's New Build project in Tower Hamlets, London. Guildmore Ltd was awarded the £72 million contract (including VAT) to demolish the existing leisure centre and construct a new leisure facility with 29 homes. The contract runs from May 2026 to April 2029. Three tenders were received and assessed under the competitive flexible procedure.
BBMF Integrated Support Programme - Engines Pre-Market Engagement
The UK Ministry of Defence published a preliminary market engagement notice for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) Integrated Support Programme (BISAP) Engines contract, valued at £78 million including VAT. The procurement covers design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for BBMF core engines over a 13-year period from April 2027 to December 2035, with potential extension to March 2040. Responses are requested by 24 April 2026.
Gen5 Consult Transport Framework Award - JBA Consulting
Hampshire County Council has awarded Lot B5 (Ecological, Landscape & Arboriculture Specialisms) of the Gen5 Consult Transport, Highways & Infrastructure Consultancy Framework 2026-2030 to Jeremy Benn Associates Limited (t/a JBA Consulting). The four-year framework provides specialist technical transportation and civil engineering professional services. This replaces the previous Place, Connectivity & Infrastructure Professional Services Framework (ET14110).
Gen5 Consult Transport, Highways & Infrastructure Framework Award - Lot B5
Hampshire County Council has awarded Lot B5 (Ecological, Landscape & Arboriculture Specialisms) of the Gen5 Consult Framework 2026-2030 to Ove Arup and Partners International Ltd. The four-year framework covers specialist technical transportation, civil engineering, and infrastructure consultancy services. This replaces the prior Place, Connectivity & Infrastructure Professional Services Framework (ET14110).
Gen5 Consult Transport Framework 2026-2030 awarded to LDA Design
Hampshire County Council has awarded the Gen5 Consult Transport, Highways & Infrastructure Consultancy Framework 2026-2030 to LDA Design Consulting Ltd for Lot B5 covering Ecological, Landscape & Arboriculture Specialisms. The four-year multi-supplier framework provides specialist technical transportation, civil engineering, and infrastructure development consultancy services.
MSK physiotherapy modification notice £68k to Ascenti Physio
MSK physiotherapy modification notice £68k to Ascenti Physio
Cheshire East Council, procurement bids withheld, FOI 43(2) not upheld
Cheshire East Council, procurement bids withheld, FOI 43(2) not upheld
Brent EIR Complaint Dismissed Over Bobby Moore Bridge
The Information Commissioner's Office dismissed a complaint against London Borough of Brent regarding an Environmental Information Regulations request. The complainant sought information about the awarding of an advertising contract concerning the Bobby Moore Bridge. The ICO found that the council was entitled to withhold the information under regulation 12(4)(e) (internal communications exception) and that the public interest favoured maintaining the exception. No further action is required from the council.
EIR Complaint Against Croydon Council Upheld
ICO has upheld a complaint under the Environmental Information Regulations against London Borough of Croydon. The Council failed to respond to an information request within the statutory 20 working day period. The ICO requires the Council to provide a response to the complainant within 30 calendar days of the decision.
FOI complaint - Council breached section 17
The ICO issued a Decision Notice against Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council finding a breach of FOIA section 17 for failing to issue a timely refusal notice within 20 working days. The council was entitled to withhold information under section 40(2) but failed proper procedure. No further steps required.
HMT Labour Together FOIA Request Not Upheld
The ICO issued a decision notice finding that HM Treasury (HMT) did not violate FOIA by stating it does not hold information about meetings between HMT officials and Labour Together. However, the ICO found that HMT breached section 10(1) of FOIA by failing to respond to the request within the statutory 20 working days, as clarification was not sought until 16 January 2025 for a request made on 7 November 2024. The ICO requires no remedial steps to be taken.
Department for the Economy - EIR 14 Procedural Breach Finding
The ICO issued a Decision Notice finding that the Department for the Economy breached regulation 14(3) of the Environmental Information Regulations by failing to specify the exception(s) applied in its initial refusal notice. The Department was entitled to withhold commercial interests information under EIR 12(5)(e). No remedial steps are required.
BBC FOI Request for Celebrity Salaries Not Upheld
The Information Commissioner's Office issued a decision notice finding in favour of the BBC regarding a Freedom of Information Act request for celebrity salaries from the 2025 series of The Celebrity Traitors. The ICO determined that any salary information held by the BBC would be exempt from disclosure as it was held for journalism, art, or literature purposes. The ICO upheld the BBC's position and requires no remedial action.
International Review of CCTV Effectiveness in Care Home Settings
RQIA in Northern Ireland commissioned Queen's University Belfast to conduct a rapid evidence assessment on the effectiveness of CCTV use in care home settings. The January 2020 review examined international evidence on surveillance technology in care homes, covering ethical debates, rights-based issues, practical perspectives, and existing policies and guidance. The review found the evidence base for CCTV effectiveness in care homes is limited overall.
BSC and Suarez v Home Secretary - Immigration Detention Judicial Review
The High Court issued a judgment in BSC v Home Secretary [2026] EWHC 705 (Admin) on 30 March 2026. Mr Justice Eyre ruled on a judicial review concerning immigration detention powers exercised by the Secretary of State for the Home Department. The case, involving applicants BSC and Janice Cabahug Suarez, challenges the legality of detention decisions under immigration law. The court's determination constrains the Home Secretary's continued use of immigration detention powers in the circumstances identified.
Robertson v Wallace - Cohabitation Property Division
Airdrie Sheriff Court issued a judgment in a cohabitation property dispute under the Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006. The court made findings of fact regarding the division of property and financial assets between former cohabitants Claire Louise Robertson and Gordie Wallace, including a jointly-owned property at 85 Whinpark Circle, Portlethen, sold for proceeds of £35,154.63. The pursuer contributed £19,000 as a deposit from her grandmother while the defender made no contribution to that deposit.
GNO v. ANO - Contact Order Enforcement under Child Abduction Act 1985
The Court of Session, Outer House (Scotland) issued an opinion in a petition for contact orders under the Child Abduction and Custody Act 1985, involving a British-Canadian child (born 2015). The father, resident in Canada, seeks enforcement of a Manitoba court order granting him direct and indirect contact rights, including winter/spring/summer holiday visits and weekend telephone contact. The case raises issues of compliance with the 1980 Hague Convention on Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.
MH v. Procurator Fiscal, Glasgow - Non-Harassment Order Variation Appeal
The Sheriff Appeal Court (Criminal) in Scotland issued an opinion clarifying the interplay between sections 234A and 234AZA of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 regarding non-harassment orders (NHOs) and section 11 of the Children (Scotland) Act 1995. The court addressed the approach criminal courts should take when imposing or varying NHOs prohibiting contact with a child. This precedent-setting ruling affects how NHOs are administered in child-related cases in Scottish criminal proceedings.
Blaenau Gwent children's services pass assurance check
Care Inspectorate Wales completed an assurance check of Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council's children's services between 23-25 February 2026. The inspection found strong, child-centred practice with effective early help and safeguarding arrangements underpinned by supportive leadership. Areas identified for improvement include recording quality, reflective analysis, and communication with families at transition points.
Legalontech Word Mark Invalidity Decision
UK trademark invalidity decision legalontech word mark
Non-Disclosure in Divorce Financial Proceedings: When Court Duty Prevails
The Financial Remedies Journal publishes analysis of English family court decisions addressing non-disclosure obligations in divorce financial remedy proceedings. Courts have consistently held that parties owe a duty of full and frank financial disclosure to the court under MCA 1973 s 25, not merely to each other, and that one spouse cannot excuse the other from this duty simply because reasonable enquiry could have uncovered the information.
Bristol airport loses legal challenge over £205m subsidy
The Competition Appeal Tribunal has unanimously dismissed Bristol airport's legal challenge against the Welsh government's £205m subsidy package for state-owned Cardiff airport. Bristol alleged the decade-long funding plan breached the Subsidy Control Act and distorted competition. The tribunal rejected all arguments, validating the subsidy which supports new routes, facilities maintenance, hangars, and cargo capacity development.
Word of Life Armenia v Armenia - State Religious Neutrality
This law blog summary discusses the ECHR's judgment in Word of Life Church of Christians v Armenia [2026] ECHR 57, concerning whether Armenian domestic courts adequately protected the applicants' rights to religious neutrality when dismissing their defamation claims against media outlets that published articles linking a celebrity scandal to the church and using pejorative terms like 'sect'. The case examines the balance between freedom of expression and freedom of religion under Articles 9 and 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Law and Religion Roundup: Funeral Director Pleads Guilty to Burial Offences
A UK law and religion roundup reports that funeral director Robert Bush pleaded guilty at Hull Crown Court to 30 counts of preventing lawful burial and theft from charities. The Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management renewed calls for statutory regulation of the funeral industry, which lacks universal inspection in England and Wales unlike Scotland. Separately, the DBS expanded its Faith in Safeguarding campaign nationally, and Northern Ireland's Department for Communities opened a consultation on amending the Charities Act 2008.
Judge McKay: Unqualified Agency Advocates Risk Undermining Legal System
Deputy District Judge McKay at Cardiff County Court ruled on 8 April 2026 that unqualified advocates used by agencies pose a risk to the integrity of the legal system. The judge found that ELMS Legal failed to demonstrate meaningful supervision of Mr Razza, an unqualified advocate, as required by the Legal Services Act 2007. This follows a similar ruling in January 2026 by District Judge Pratt in Haverfordwest regarding solicitor's agents.
Parmjit Bassi v Network Rail - Race Harassment Award
The Southampton Employment Tribunal awarded £14,000 in compensation to Parmjit Bassi, a Network Rail track worker, after finding that placing an English Defence League (EDL) leaflet in his locker and a newspaper clipping of a knife attack in his boot constituted race harassment. The tribunal criticised Network Rail managers for their 'laissez-faire attitude' when Bassi reported the incidents.
UK and EU SPC Law Remains Aligned After High Court Ruling
The UK High Court issued a ruling on Supplementary Protection Certificates (SPCs), maintaining alignment between UK and EU SPC law. SPCs extend patent protection for pharmaceutical products to compensate for time spent in clinical trials and regulatory approval processes. The decision preserves existing protections for pharmaceutical patent holders.
Landlords Evicting Tenants Before Renters' Rights Act Takes Effect
The Guardian reports that landlords in England are accelerating no-fault evictions ahead of the Renters' Rights Act, which takes effect on 1 May 2026 and will abolish Section 21 evictions. The renters' union Acorn reports that no-fault evictions comprised one in five of its case reports in October, rising to nearly one in three by January 2026. Tenants face displacement as landlords rush to evict before the legal change.
Juniper Pharmacy Adverts Banned for Exploiting New Mothers
The UK's Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) issued an enforcement ruling banning online pharmacy Juniper from running Instagram and Facebook adverts that promoted prescription-only weight-loss medication to the public and exploited the body image insecurities of new mothers. The ASA found Juniper's Facebook ads, including posts in weight-loss support groups that failed to disclose their sponsored nature, created an undue sense of urgency for consumers considering medicated weight-loss programmes.
Refugee charity cleared of false social media allegations
Refugee charity cleared of false social media allegations
Field Safety Notices: 30 March - 3 April 2026
MHRA published a weekly summary of Field Safety Notices received from medical device manufacturers for 30 March - 3 April 2026. The listing includes four FSNs: Abbott Afinion HbA1c diagnostic devices, Boston Scientific ACCOLADE cardiac devices, Ivoclar Vivadent Adhese 2 dental adhesives, and Resoundant Acoustic Driver System imaging devices. MHRA clarifies the listings are for information only and recommends contacting manufacturers directly with questions.
Spesolimab GPP flare prevention appraisal terminated, no evidence
NICE has terminated its appraisal of subcutaneous spesolimab (Spevigo) 1-ml formulation for preventing generalized pustular psoriasis flares in patients 12 years and older. The termination occurred because the manufacturer did not provide an evidence submission, leaving NICE unable to assess clinical effectiveness or cost-effectiveness. No NHS funding guidance will be issued for this indication.
Progress Update: Independent Audit of Drax Phase One Complete
Ofgem published a progress update on Phase one of the independent external audit of Drax Power Limited conducted by Forvis Mazars. Phase one covers forest type and sawlog content data from Canadian supply chains for compliance period April 2023 to March 2024 (CP22) under the Renewables Obligation scheme. The audit follows a prior enforcement investigation where Drax paid £25 million into Ofgem's Voluntary Redress Fund for misreporting forest type and sawlog data.
Firms' Customer Due Diligence Processes and Controls: FCA Multi-Firm Review Findings
The FCA published findings from its 2025 multi-firm review of Customer Due Diligence (CDD), Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD), and ongoing due diligence controls across authorized firms. The review assessed policies and procedures, CDD/EDD processes, and compliance monitoring against the Money Laundering Regulations 2017. The FCA identified both good and poor practices across the sector and set out its expectations for firms.
FCA Primary Market Bulletin 62: Carillion Enforcement, Manipulative Approaches
FCA published Primary Market Bulletin 62 covering enforcement and supervisory matters for primary market participants. The bulletin announces a £237,700 fine on former Carillion plc director Richard Howson for misleading statements, raises concerns about potentially manipulative investment approaches, and provides feedback on sponsors' work on the modified transfers process. The bulletin also reminds respondents of the deadline for the Prospectus Rules consultation on proposed clarificatory amendments.
CMA SAU accepted DESNZ referral, £64m grant for Port Talbot
CMA SAU accepted DESNZ referral, £64m grant for Port Talbot
Warm Home Discount Guidance 2026: Draft for Comment
Ofgem has published draft Warm Home Discount guidance for 2026, seeking stakeholder feedback before finalising documents for England & Wales and Scotland. The guidance reflects amendments to WHD regulations following the government decision to expand the scheme from 2026 to 2031. Responses are requested by 8 May 2026.
OFTO Projects and Cap and Floor Interconnectors: IDC Rates 2026-2027
Ofgem published updated Interest During Construction (IDC) rates for 2026-2027 affecting offshore electricity transmission (OFTO) projects and Window 3 cap and floor electricity interconnectors. The IDC rate for OFTO projects is set at 9.55% (pre-tax, nominal), reduced from 9.74% in 2025-2026. The IDC rate for Window 3 interconnectors is set at 5.49% (vanilla, real-CPIH), increased from 5.37% in 2025-2026. These rates apply to projects reaching Final Investment Decision (FID) during the 2026-2027 period.
Update to Open General Licence for AUKUS Nations
The Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) has published Notice to Exporters 2026/10 announcing an update to the open general licence covering exports to AUKUS Nations (Australia, United Kingdom, United States). The notice advises of changes affecting the export of goods, software, or technology under this licence framework. Exporters utilizing the AUKUS Nations open general licence should review the updated terms to ensure continued compliance.
In the Matter of Kession Capital Ltd (In Administration) - Winding Up Order
The England and Wales High Court ordered the compulsory winding up of Kession Capital Ltd following rejection of administrators' proposals by creditors. The court rejected the administrators' request to maintain administration pending a Supreme Court appeal, finding the company should not remain in administration despite creditor support for continuation. Twenty-six judgment creditors opposed the administrators' application, which was framed as seeking directions but treated as adversarial litigation.
APK Communications & Ors v Vodafone Ltd - Case Management Conference Order
The England and Wales High Court Commercial Court conducted a Case Management Conference in APK Communications & Ors v Vodafone Ltd, a dispute involving former franchisees of Vodafone. The Court determined procedural matters including whether to proceed with a split trial (liability followed by quantum), granted a co-counselling application permitting dual representation by Knights PLC and Bird & Bird LLP for different groups of claimants, and issued case management directions including expert evidence and trial duration. The underlying dispute concerns franchise agreements entered into between February 2018 and July 2023 for physical retail stores.
Safra v Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP - Costs Assessment
The Senior Courts Costs Office issued a judgment in Safra v Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP regarding a dispute over approximately US$18.9 million in unpaid legal fees. The court addressed preliminary issues concerning whether the 2022 engagement letter constituted a contentious business agreement under the Solicitors Act 1974 and whether the invoices qualified as proper interim statutory bills. The case involves a significant solicitor-client costs dispute heard by the SCCO.
Particle Physics Experiment Consolidated Grants 2026 - Pre-announcement
UKRI/STFC has issued a pre-announcement for the Particle Physics Experiment Consolidated Grants 2026. The funding opportunity opens 27 April 2026 and closes 2 July 2026. The grant period runs 1 October 2027 to 30 September 2029 (24 months). STFC will fund 80% of Full Economic Cost. This grant round extends the 2024 consolidated grants and covers the remaining two years of the award cycle.
CfI: Advanced Connectivity Technologies (ACT): Call 1 - £15M Funding
UKRI and Innovate UK have opened a £15 million funding opportunity for UK registered organisations to develop near-term, testable connectivity solutions advancing the UK's Secure and Resilient and Sustainable Network Grand Challenges. This is the first call under the CfI: Advanced Connectivity Technologies programme. Individual awards can reach up to £2 million, with a closing date of 3 June 2026.
Prysmian Cables Environmental Permit Application - EGL1 Onshore Cable Seaham
The Environment Agency has published a public consultation notice regarding an environmental permit application from Prysmian Cables and Systems Limited for the EGL1 Onshore Cable project located at Spectrum Business Park, Seaham, Durham. The application covers installations, waste operations, water discharge activities, and medium combustion plant. The agency is seeking public comments before deciding whether to grant or refuse the permit and what conditions to include.
Funeral Director Robert Bush Pleads Guilty to 30 Counts of Preventing Lawful Burial and Fraud
Robert Bush, operator of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull, pleaded guilty to 30 counts of preventing a lawful burial, 30 counts of fraud by false representation, theft from 12 charities, and fraudulent trading relating to funeral plans between 2012 and 2024. Police found 35 bodies and over 100 sets of ashes at the premises in March 2024. The case involved presenting grieving families with incorrect ashes while bodies remained decomposing on site for months, including one for approximately a year.
BSB to publish barristers disciplinary charges after case management hearing
The Bar Standards Board has decided to bring forward publication of disciplinary charges against barristers to after the case management hearing, rather than waiting until a convening order is signed off less than 14 days before the substantive hearing. Following a public consultation that received eight responses broadly supporting earlier publication, the BSB rowed back from naming defendants at the point charges are brought due to concerns about stress on barristers. The regulator stated this balances openness with procedural fairness by allowing objections before publication.
Record £268k fine for illegal tree felling
Leicester Magistrates' Court imposed a record £268,751 fine on Motor Fuel Ltd for illegal tree felling in Leicestershire. The company pleaded guilty to failing to comply with an enforcement notice served after felling mixed broadleaf woodland beside a petrol station in 2019. The court also ordered the landowner to replant and maintain 176 trees on the site for 10 years.
UK Teachers Receive £15m Compensation Payout for Workplace Injuries
The NASUWT teachers' union revealed it secured almost £15.5m in compensation for UK school staff last year, covering personal injury claims, unfair dismissal, discrimination, and health and safety violations. Notable cases included a teacher who contracted leptospirosis from a rat infestation and another injured when a pupil threw objects at them, both receiving six-figure settlements.
UK Court Decisions - Court of Appeal and High Court Listings
Inner Temple Library Current Awareness service published a listing of recent UK court decisions spanning Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) and multiple High Court divisions including Administrative, Admiralty, Chancery, Commercial, Family, King's Bench, and Technology and Construction Courts. Decisions date from February to April 2026.
Tribunal Judge Alex Hobbs Sanctioned for Misconduct - 16-Week Decision Delay
The Judicial Conduct Investigations Office found that Tribunal Judge Alex Hobbs committed misconduct by issuing a decision notice 16 weeks after a child maintenance service tribunal hearing. The Lady Chief Justice and Lord Chancellor issued Hobbs with formal advice for misconduct, the least severe sanction available for judicial office-holders. The investigation noted Hobbs had not informed parties of the delay, failed to respond to multiple chase emails, and only issued the decision after a complaint was made.
Holiday let owner faces bankruptcy under 182-day rule
BBC News reports on the impact of Welsh holiday let regulations on small operators, including Paul Martin who runs four holiday cottages near Newtown and faces potential bankruptcy due to council tax premium charges under the 182-day rule. The legislation, introduced three years ago, subjects holiday lets not rented for at least 182 days annually to council tax at premium rates of up to 75%, in some cases creating five-figure annual liabilities for affected property owners.
Chambers and ex-tenant face trial over unpaid rent
A dispute between No5 Chambers Ltd and former tenant barrister Paul Marshall over £71,200 in allegedly unpaid chambers contributions is scheduled for trial on 20 April 2026 at Central London County Court. A pre-trial ruling by Recorder Graeme Robertson struck out multiple non-compliant paragraphs from Marshall's witness statement for violations of Practice Direction 57AC governing witness statements in Business and Property Courts proceedings.
Age-Disputed Children Detained in Adult Detention Under One-In-One-Out Scheme
The Humans for Rights Network has identified 76 age-disputed children detained in UK adult detention centres since the one-in-one-out removal scheme began in September. Of these, 26 have been released into children's social services care, 11 released into adult accommodation pending age assessments, and 13 forcibly removed to France. Research indicates many detained children are survivors of torture and trafficking experiencing acute mental health declines.
BSB Rejects Good Law Project Complaint Against Gender Critical Barrister
The Bar Standards Board has rejected a complaint by the Good Law Project against barrister Sarah Phillimore over social media posts referring to a trans woman complainant. The BSB determined that Phillimore 'has the right to manifest her gender critical beliefs' and that her posts did not constitute harassment or breach of Core Duty 5 requiring investigation. The GLP stated it will request an independent review and may pursue judicial review proceedings.