General Licence INT/2026/9491628 - Prince Group Insolvency Payments Under Global Human Rights Regulations
HM Treasury OFSI has issued General Licence INT/2026/9491628 under the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regulations 2020. The licence permits persons, designated parties (DPs), and subsidiaries of the Prince Group to carry out insolvency-related activities and permits relevant financial institutions to process associated payments, notwithstanding sanctions prohibitions in regulations 11-15. The licence names 15 designated persons including Prince Group Global Group Ltd, Cambodian entities, and individual DPs, and specifies that funds made available must ultimately be held in frozen accounts or treated as frozen resources.
Tree Works at Fairland Park N8 - £90,000 Contract
Haringey Council seeks contractors for tree works at Fairland Park N8 under DPS1 1355, valued at £90,000. The contract period runs from 19 to 23 October 2026. Bids close on 13 May 2026 at 3:31pm. This is a call-off from a dynamic purchasing system.
Tree Works Contract, The Avenue N17 - £90,000 Procurement
Haringey Council has published a £90,000 tree works contract opportunity for HG6 Plane Trees along The Avenue, London N17. The contract is a call-off from Dynamic Purchasing System DPS1 1370. Submissions close on 13 May 2026 at 4:06pm, with work scheduled to commence on 19 October 2026 and conclude on 23 October 2026. The contract is designated as suitable for SMEs and VCSEs.
Sizewell C Waterproofing Materials, £2.5m-£5m
Sizewell C nuclear project invites suppliers for waterproofing materials procurement valued at £2.5 million to £5 million. The contract covers 120,000 m² bonded membrane, 45,000 m² unbonded membrane, waterbar materials, sealants, and accessories for nuclear facility construction. Bids close 23 April 2026 at 5:30pm.
Evaluation Partner for Torus Foundation Impact Assessment, Liverpool, £25k-£50k
Torus Foundation is seeking an evaluation partner to independently evaluate its impact across Torus neighbourhoods and communities in Liverpool for the period April 2023 to March 2026. The contract has a value of £25,000 to £50,000 and will run for approximately 7 months from 1 June 2026 to 31 December 2026. The deadline for submissions is 13 May 2026 at 12pm.
External Refurbishments, 3 Properties, Brecon, £120k-£348k
ADS Group Ltd, as delivery partner for Amey and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, has published a notice of future opportunity for external refurbishment works on three properties in Brecon, Wales. The contract has an estimated value between £120,000 and £348,000, with works to include replacement of doors and windows, roof replacement, and potential external wall insulation. Subcontractors must be Verified members of Constructionline Gold with relevant work categories showing subcontracting is permitted.
Old Oak Common Lighting Framework, £500k-£1m, Closing 21st Apr
The UK Government's Contracts Finder has published a notice seeking suppliers for a lighting control systems framework agreement valued between £500,000 and £1,000,000 for the Old Oak Common project in London. The supply contract runs from January 2027 to January 2032 and is suitable for SMEs. Interested suppliers must submit bids by 21 April 2026 at 12pm.
Uncrewed Aerial Range Clearance RFI - Royal Navy
The UK Ministry of Defence has published a Request for Information (RFI) seeking supplier interest in uncrewed aerial systems for range clearance and assurance. The Royal Navy aims to use unmanned systems to enable timely and safe equipment testing. This is an early engagement notice inviting potential suppliers to submit information before the 28 April 2026 closing date. The procurement is open to SMEs and VCSEs.
Tree Works Contract £90k Alexandra Park Allotment London
Haringey Council (London Construction Programme) has published a £90,000 service contract for tree works at Alexandra Park Allotment (N10 3TE). The procurement is via call-off from dynamic purchasing system DPS1 1353. The contract runs from 28 September 2026 to 16 October 2026 with a closing date of 13 May 2026 at 12:37pm. The opportunity is open to SMEs and VCSEs.
RIIO-2 RFPR Template and Guidance Proposed Modifications for 2026
Ofgem is consulting on proposed modifications to the Regulatory Financial Performance Reporting (RFPR) template and guidance for Gas and Electricity transmission and distribution network companies under the RIIO-2 framework. The modifications include general updates to guidance, input data, and parameters for the 2025/26 reporting year. Responses are requested from network companies by 12 May 2026.
Renewable Electricity Register Letter of Authorisation Template
Ofgem published a Letter of Authorisation template for the Renewable Electricity Register (RER), applicable to REGO, RO, and FIT schemes. The template is for organisations creating accounts on the RER or amending authorised signatory details. It must be completed on company headed paper and signed by an authorised signatory before submission.
Newham Council Stratford One Complaint Details Withheld Under EIR
The Information Commissioner's Office has issued a decision notice regarding a complaint against the London Borough of Newham concerning requests for information about Stratford One student accommodation complaints. The Council relied on regulation 12(5)(b) of the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) — adverse effect on the course of justice — to withhold the information. The ICO determined that the Council correctly applied this exemption and no further compliance steps are required.
University of Bradford FOI 10 Upheld, 30-Day Response Required
The ICO has upheld a Freedom of Information complaint against the University of Bradford. The public authority failed to respond to the complainant's FOI request within the statutory 20 working days under FOIA. The ICO requires the university to provide a substantive response to the request within 30 calendar days.
FCDO fails FOI response deadline, ICO upholds complaint
FCDO fails FOI response deadline, ICO upholds complaint
Crown Prosecution Service Withholds Text Messages, FOI Appeal Not Upheld
The Information Commissioner's Office has issued a Decision Notice in case IC-419334-F5H6 dated 7 April 2026. The Crown Prosecution Service withheld copies of text messages considered as evidence in criminal proceedings, citing FOIA section 30(1)(c) (criminal proceedings) and section 40(2) (personal information). The ICO determined that CPS correctly relied on section 30(1)(c) to withhold the requested information. No further steps are required of the CPS.
FCDO FOI Complaint Upheld, Response Required
The ICO has upheld a Freedom of Information complaint against the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The public authority failed to respond to an FOI request within the statutory 20 working day period required under FOIA. The Commissioner requires FCDO to provide the complainant with a response within 30 calendar days of this decision notice.
Brighton & Hove City Council Breaches FOIA on Drive Request
The ICO has issued a Decision Notice finding that Brighton & Hove City Council breached FOIA requirements when handling an information request about a drive at a specific address. The council processed the request under FOIA section 21 (information accessible by other means) when it should have been handled under the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR). The ICO upheld complaints under EIR regulation 5(1) and regulation 14(1). The council is required to reconsider the request under the EIR and issue a fresh response to the complainant.
Kent County Council FOIA 10 Upheld
The ICO issued a decision notice finding Kent County Council in breach of FOIA for failing to respond to a freedom of information request within the statutory 20 working day timeframe. The council must now provide a substantive response to the original request within 30 calendar days of the decision.
Birmingham City Council FOI 12 Upheld
The ICO has upheld a complaint against Birmingham City Council regarding a Freedom of Information Act request. The Council cited section 12 (appropriate limit) to refuse providing information about invoices paid from April 2019. The ICO determined the Council is not entitled to rely on section 12. The Council must now issue a fresh response to the request without relying on section 12(1) of FOIA.
Metropolitan Police NCND FOI 40 Complaint Not Upheld
The Information Commissioner's Office has issued a Decision Notice in case IC-469364-Q5L0 concerning a Freedom of Information complaint against the Metropolitan Police Service. The complainant requested information about whether a named individual worked for the MPS. The MPS responded using 'neither confirm nor deny' (NCND) under section 40(5B)(a)(i) of FOIA. The ICO determined that the MPS was entitled to apply the NCND exemption and the complaint was not upheld.
Northumbria Police Operation Eustace FOI Complaint Not Upheld
The Information Commissioner's Office issued a Decision Notice regarding a Freedom of Information complaint against Northumbria Police concerning Operation Eustace. The ICO determined that on the balance of probabilities, Northumbria Police does not hold information within the scope of the request. The Commissioner does not require Northumbria Police to take any steps.
RCVS VCMS FOI Complaint Not Upheld - Info Not Held
The Information Commissioner's Office issued a decision notice regarding a Freedom of Information complaint against the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). The complainant requested information about complaints handled by the Veterinary Client Mediation Service (VCMS). The ICO determined that on the balance of probabilities, RCVS does not hold the requested information. The complaint was not upheld and no further steps are required.
Castle Point Borough Council - FOI Complaint Partly Upheld
The ICO issued a Decision Notice concerning Castle Point Borough Council's handling of a Freedom of Information request. For part 1 of the request (emails between named individuals), the ICO found the council does not hold the requested information. For part 2 (email chains), the ICO determined the council is entitled to withhold personal data under section 40 for Email Chain 1 and part of Email Chain 2, but must disclose remaining information in Email Chain 2 since no exemption was cited.
Contract (Formation and Remedies) (Scotland) Act 2026
The Scottish Parliament passed and Royal Assent was granted on 14 April 2026 for the Contract (Formation and Remedies) (Scotland) Act 2026 (2026 asp 10). This Act establishes a comprehensive statutory framework for contract formation and remedies for breach of contract under Scots law. The legislation covers party autonomy, requirements for contract formation, offers, acceptance, revocation, rejection, counter-offers, uncertainty, contracts formed by unnotified acts, and remedies for breach.
Wireless Telegraphy (Exemption) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2026
OFCOM has made SI 2026 No. 396, amending the Wireless Telegraphy (Exemption) Regulations 2021. The instrument adds new definitions including 'autonomous maritime radio device' and 'ETSI EN 302 502', updates interface requirement references (IR 2030 and IR 2066) to April 2026 editions, and inserts two new exemption regulations (Regulations 11 and 12) covering autonomous maritime radio devices operating at 160.9 MHz and coastal station radio training schools.
SI 2026 No. 401 - Revocation of RAF Brize Norton Flying Restrictions
The UK Statutory Instrument 2026 No. 401 revokes flying restrictions at RAF Brize Norton, removing the prior operational limitations on aircraft movements at the Oxfordshire airbase. This deregulatory measure eliminates compliance obligations previously imposed on operators flying in the affected airspace.
Local Government (Structural Changes) (Finance) (Amendment) Regulations 2026
The Secretary of State has made SI 2026 No. 406, amending the Local Government (Structural Changes) (Finance) Regulations 2008. The amendment modifies Regulation 9 to clarify how council tax determinations under section 11C of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 apply when local government areas are reorganised. The new provisions address situations where some predecessor billing authorities made relevant determinations before reorganisation but others did not, establishing how the one-year rule in section 11C(3) applies to successor councils making determinations for subsequent determination areas.
Birmingham East Mayoral Development Corporation (Establishment) Order 2026
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has made The Birmingham East Mayoral Development Corporation (Establishment) Order 2026 (SI 2026/405), establishing the Birmingham East Mayoral Development Corporation for a designated Mayoral development area in Birmingham. The Order, made on 14th April 2026 and laid before Parliament the same day, comes into force on 11th May 2026. The development area is defined by boundaries shown on a map deposited with the Ministry and the West Midlands Combined Authority.
Sentencing Act 2026 (Commencement No. 3) Regulations 2026
The Secretary of State has made SI 2026/402, bringing into force specified sections of the Sentencing Act 2026 on two dates. Sections 21, 34, 36, 38, 39 and Schedule 5 take effect on 11 May 2026, covering prison capacity reporting, supervision order termination, and unpaid work requirements. Section 42, allowing IPP and DPP prisoners to request parole board referral for licence termination, takes effect on 1 June 2026.
Theatres Managed Service, Gloucestershire NHS, deadline 29th Apr
Theatres Managed Service, Gloucestershire NHS, deadline 29th Apr
Middlesbrough Council Awards Funeral Services Contract to Funeral Services Limited for £150,000
Middlesbrough Council has awarded a three-year funeral services contract to Funeral Services Limited (Co-op Funeralcare) valued at £150,000 including VAT. The contract runs from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029, with the option for two 12-month extensions potentially extending the term to 31 March 2031. The procurement was conducted using below-threshold open competition procedure under the Procurement Act 2023.
Payments Compliance Notice 1 Oct 2025 to 31 Mar 2026
Thurrock Council has published its payments compliance notice for the period 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026 under the Procurement Act 2023. The council reports an average of 9.45 days to make payments after invoice receipt, with 97.67% of payments made within 30 days and only 0.14% of due payments not made during the period. The notice was approved by Chief Finance Officer/S151 Officer Dawn Calvert.
2Bmagic Trade Mark Decision - Bad Faith and Earlier Trade Marks
UK IPO issued decision O/0307/26 on 9 April 2026 regarding the 2Bmagic trademark (Class 3), dismissing challenges under Section 3(6) (bad faith - knowledge of opponent's use in the UK) and Sections 5(1), 5(2), and 5(3) (earlier trade marks), finding conceptual distinctions between the marks.
2Bmagic Trademark Invalidity Decision O/307/26 - Bad Faith and Earlier Trade Mark Grounds
UKIPO Hearing Officer Miss A Klass issued decision O/307/26 on 9 April 2026 regarding trademark 2Bmagic (Class 03). The decision addressed grounds under Section 3(6) Bad Faith based on knowledge of opponent's use in the UK, and Sections 5(1), 5(2), and 5(3) concerning earlier trade marks with conceptual distinctions. The decision modifies the trademark registration status for the 2Bmagic mark in the beauty/cosmetic product class.
Trade Mark Decision O/0312/26 - Procedural Issues
UK Intellectual Property Office issued Trade Mark Decision O/0312/26 on 13 April 2026, presided by Mr Phillip Harris as Appointed Person. The decision concerned a trade mark challenge for the mark 'From Pasture to Plate Nose to Tail (figurative series of 2)'. The decision addressed procedural issues related to a late filed defence. This ruling represents an adjudication on trademark procedural matters under UK trade mark law.
HeatView Opposition Decision O/0308/26 - Trademark Classes 36, 38, 42
UKIPO Hearing Officer Teresa Pinto issued decision O/0308/26 on 9 April 2026 regarding the opposition to trademark application 'HeatView' covering Classes 36, 38, and 42. The opposition was considered under Sections 5(1), 5(2), and 5(3) of the Trade Marks Act 1994, examining issues relating to goods versus retail services. This decision resolves the trademark challenge and establishes the outcome for the applicant's registration attempt in these service classes.
CLIPPER NATURAL, FAIR & DELICIOUS Trademark Opposition Decision O/0309/26
The UK Intellectual Property Office issued Decision O/0309/26 on 10 April 2026 regarding a trademark opposition concerning the mark CLIPPER NATURAL, FAIR & DELICIOUS across Classes 11, 16, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 29, 30, 32, 35, 36, and 43. The decision addressed grounds under Sections 5(1), 5(2), and 5(3) relating to likelihood of confusion and dilution, Section 5(4) on passing off, and proof of use issues for revocation. Parties to the opposition proceeding—including the applicant, opponent, and their legal representatives—must review the outcome and determine whether to comply with the decision or pursue an appeal within applicable timeframes.
MemorySense Trade Mark Invalidity Decision O/0313/26
UKIPO Hearing Officer Mrs L Stephens issued Decision O/0313/26 on 13 April 2026 regarding the invalidity of the MemorySense trade mark (Class 20). The decision found the mark invalid on grounds of descriptiveness under Section 3(1) as it was devoid of character for word marks, and also addressed Section 5(4) earlier rights concerning passing off issues arising from registry proceedings.
Anti-Scraping Bot Verification Page
BAILII implemented Anubis, a proof-of-work anti-bot system, to protect its Northern Ireland case database from AI scraping. The system uses Hashcash-style proof-of-work to increase the cost of mass scraping while remaining negligible for legitimate individual users. The page serves as a placeholder while more sophisticated fingerprinting of headless browsers is developed.
Anti-Bot Verification Page Notice
BAILII has implemented Anubis, a proof-of-work anti-bot verification system to protect server resources against aggressive AI web scraping. The system uses Hashcash-style computational challenges that add negligible load for individual users but become resource-prohibitive at mass scraping scale. The verification page is a temporary measure while more sophisticated fingerprinting techniques for headless browsers are developed.
Anubis Anti-Bot Proof-of-Work Page Deployed on Northern Ireland Case Database
The British and Irish Legal Information Institute (BAILII) has deployed Anubis, a proof-of-work anti-bot protection system, on its Northern Ireland case database. The system uses Hashcash-style proof-of-work challenges to deter aggressive AI web scraping that causes server downtime. Users with JavaScript-blocking plugins such as JShelter must disable them to access content.
VCT Statistics 2026: Funds Raised, Investors 2024-2025
HMRC announces release of Venture Capital Trusts Statistics for 2026, covering funds raised and investor numbers for the 2024-2025 tax year. The statistics are scheduled for publication on 21 May 2026 at 9:30am. No compliance obligations are created by this announcement.
Enterprise Investment Scheme and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme: May 2026 Statistics Announcement
HMRC has announced the release of accredited official statistics on the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) covering investment data up to the 2024-2025 period. The statistics will be published on 21 May 2026 at 9:30am. The data will cover the number of companies and investors under these venture capital schemes along with investment amounts.
Referral of DESNZ's Proposed £46.5M Subsidy to ITM Power UK Ltd
The CMA's Subsidy Advice Unit has accepted a referral from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero regarding a proposed £46.5 million capital grant to ITM Power UK Ltd. The subsidy will support construction of a 1GW electrolyser manufacturing facility in Sheffield to boost UK low-carbon hydrogen production capacity. The SAU will evaluate whether the subsidy complies with UK subsidy control requirements and publish its report by 26 May 2026.
Anti-Bot Challenge Page Blocking Access
BAILII has deployed Anubis, a Proof-of-Work anti-bot protection mechanism on its Scotland decisions feed. The system is designed to increase operational costs for mass scraping by AI companies while imposing minimal burden on individual legitimate users. The page informs visitors that JavaScript-dependent protections may conflict with browser extensions such as JShelter, and advises disabling such plugins for the affected domain.
Bot Protection Page Blocking Access to Case
BAILII deployed Anubis, a bot protection system using Proof-of-Work (Hashcash-style), to protect its servers against AI web scraping. The protection page explains the system requires JavaScript and may conflict with privacy plugins like JShelter. Users must complete the proof-of-work challenge to access case content.
Anti-Bot Verification Page for EWHC Costs Case 2026/813
BAILII deployed an anti-bot protection system (Anubis) using proof-of-work (Hashcash-style) to prevent AI scraping of UK court documents. The system blocks access to court case EWHC/Costs/2026/813, requiring users to disable JavaScript-blocking plugins to proceed.
Anubis Proof-of-Work Bot Protection Blocks Case Access
BAILII's Anubis bot protection system is blocking access to EWHC/Admin/2026/858. Anubis implements a Hashcash-style proof-of-work challenge to deter mass scraping by AI companies. Users must disable JavaScript-blocking plugins such as JShelter to proceed. The system aims to make automated scraping economically costly while legitimate users experience minimal delay.
Ministry of Defence Structural Tee Beam Repairs, £4m
The UK Ministry of Defence has published a procurement notice for structural tee beam repairs valued at £4 million. The contract will be located at Portsmouth Naval Base (PO1 3LS) with an approach to market date of 28 May 2026. This is an early notification as the buyer is not yet ready to invite bid applications. The contract is suitable for SMEs.
Pharmacy Outpatient Dispensing Services at Barts Health NHS Trust, £6m
Barts Health NHS Trust is seeking a managed service provider to deliver outpatient pharmacy services at Barts Health NHS Trust. The contract is valued at £6,000,000 for a five-year period from 1 November 2026 to 31 October 2031. This is an open procurement procedure above threshold, closing on 18 May 2026 at 12pm.
Helensburgh Asbestos Removal, 223 Properties, £870k-£4.5m
ADS, acting as delivery partner for the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, has published a contract opportunity for asbestos removal works at 223 Single Family Accommodation properties in Helensburgh, Scotland. The contract is valued between £870,000 and £4,500,000, with an approach to market date of 28 April 2026 and contract start date of 24 August 2026. Subcontractors must be Constructionline GOLD verified members and willing to act as main contractor.
Tree Works in Finsbury Park, London, £90k, Closing 6 May
Haringey Council has published a contract opportunity for tree works at Finsbury Park, London (N4 1EE). The contract is valued at £90,000 with a closing date of 6 May 2026. This is a service contract procured via call-off from a dynamic purchasing system, with a contract period from 14 September 2026 to 3 October 2026.
University of Sheffield Refurbishment Works Tender - £200,000
The University of Sheffield has published an open tender for refurbishment works across nine campus buildings (Alfred Denny, Bartolome House, Jessop West, Regents Court, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Sir Henry Stephenson Building, Pam Liversidge, Hicks Building and The Diamond Building). The contract value is £200,000, with a closing date of 1 May 2026 at 12:00 noon.
Tree Works Contract at Wolves Lane Allotments, £90,000
London Borough of Haringey has published a contract opportunity for tree works at Wolves Lane Allotments, N22. The contract is valued at £90,000 with a closing date of 13 May 2026. The procurement is a call-off from a dynamic purchasing system and is open to SMEs and VCSEs.
Skills Education Advisers Lot 2 - Technical and Vocational Qualifications Framework
The Department for Education published an open tender opportunity for Skills Education Advisers under Lot 2 of the Educational and Children's Social Care Professionals Framework. Suppliers may submit bids until 6 May 2026 at 2pm. The contract runs from 15 June 2026 to 31 March 2031 and is open to SMEs and VCSEs. This procurement uses the Open Light Touch Procedure.
Open Finance Delivery Plan, UK, 2026-2030
The FCA has published its Open Finance Roadmap for 2026-2030, setting out a phased delivery plan to develop open finance in the UK. The plan progresses through three phases: 2026 prioritising high-impact use cases such as SME lending and mortgage access through collaboration and evidence-building; 2027 focusing on regulatory framework design and coordination; and 2028-2030 scaling and delivering sustainable open finance schemes with strong governance and consumer protections.
Doctoral Focal Award: Environmental Evidence Synthesis, £8.1M
UKRI announces a £8,144,000 Doctoral Focal Award for environmental evidence synthesis, co-funded by NERC and ESRC. Up to two doctoral focal awards will be funded, each receiving up to £4,072,000 to support 30 notional studentships across three annual intakes. Applications open 15 April 2026 and close 15 July 2026 at 4:00pm UK time. A notification of intent must be submitted by 27 May 2026.
FCA Sets Out Vision for Open Finance to Empower Consumers and Businesses
The FCA has published its vision for open finance, outlining how consumers and businesses could securely share financial data with financial services providers to access mortgages, investments, savings and pensions. The FCA will prioritise helping SMEs improve access to credit and consumers manage mortgages, engaging with industry, consumer groups and regulators through its Smart Data Accelerator and PRISM Taskforce in 2026. The FCA will work with HM Treasury on a regulatory framework by end of 2027.
London Borough of Southwark Upheld for FOIA Response Failure
The ICO has upheld a complaint against London Borough of Southwark for failing to respond to a Freedom of Information request within the statutory 20 working day timeframe. The Commissioner has ordered the authority to provide a substantive response to the complainant within 30 calendar days in compliance with its FOIA obligations.
Royal Borough of Greenwich - FOIA Request Non-Compliance Upheld
The ICO has upheld a complaint against the Royal Borough of Greenwich for failing to respond to a Freedom of Information Act request within the statutory 20 working day timeframe. The Commissioner has ordered the public authority to provide a substantive response to the complainant within 30 calendar days of the decision.
Wandsworth Borough Council FOI Complaint Not Upheld
The Information Commissioner's Office has issued a Decision Notice regarding a Freedom of Information Act complaint against Wandsworth Borough Council. The complaint concerned the council's handling of a request for information about Wandsworth Information, Advice and Support Service. The ICO determined that the council's refusal to confirm or deny holding information under sections 40(5B) and 31(3) of FOIA was justified, and that on the balance of probabilities, the council does not hold any further information within scope of the request. No further action is required of the council.
EANI School Walking Route EIR Complaint Not Upheld
The Information Commissioner's Office issued a Decision Notice on 9 April 2026 regarding an Environmental Information Regulations complaint against the Education Authority Northern Ireland (EANI). The complainant requested information relating to an assessment of a school walking route between two postcodes. The ICO determined that, on the balance of probabilities, EANI does not hold any additional information falling within the scope of the request and does not require further steps. The complaint was not upheld.
FOI Cost Limit Refusal Not Upheld - Middleton Cheney Parish Council
The ICO has issued a Decision Notice regarding Middleton Cheney Parish Council's refusal of an FOI request under section 12(1) (cost limit exemption). The Commissioner determined that the Council was entitled to refuse the request on cost grounds and found that the Council complied with its section 16 obligations to offer advice and assistance. No further action is required from the Council.
NHS Trust Upheld for Late Supplier Payment FOIA Breach
The Information Commissioner's Office issued a decision notice finding that The Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn NHS Foundation Trust breached section 10 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 by failing to respond to an information request within 20 working days. The complaint concerned the Trust's failure to pay suppliers on time and related late payment compensation. The ICO ordered the public authority to provide a substantive response to the original request.
Rushcliffe Borough Council EIR Planning Information Not Held
The Information Commissioner's Office issued a Decision Notice finding that Rushcliffe Borough Council correctly applied the Environmental Information Regulations exception at regulation 12(4)(a). The Council stated that requested planning application information was not held, and the Commissioner determined on the balance of probabilities that the information is indeed not held by the Council.
FOI 10 Breach Upheld, City of Wolverhampton Council
The ICO has upheld a breach of section 10 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 against the City of Wolverhampton Council. The Council failed to provide a substantive response to an FOI request within the required 20 working days. The ICO has ordered the Council to issue a substantive response within 30 calendar days of the decision notice date.
The Open University FOI Complaint Upheld, Must Issue Fresh Response
The ICO upheld a complaint against The Open University regarding a Freedom of Information Act request for data security and cybersecurity information. The university had refused to comply, citing section 14 of FOIA (vexatious request). The ICO determined the university is not entitled to rely on section 14. The ICO requires the university to issue a fresh response that does not rely on section 14 of FOIA.
Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust FOI Complaint Upheld
The Information Commissioner's Office has upheld a Freedom of Information complaint against Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. The Trust failed to respond to the complainant's FOI request within the statutory 20 working days required under FOIA. The ICO has issued a Decision Notice requiring the Trust to provide a substantive response to the outstanding request within 30 calendar days.
Police FOI complaint: 10(1) upheld, 12(1) not upheld
Police FOI complaint: 10(1) upheld, 12(1) not upheld
UK Shelves Chagos Islands Legislation After US Drops Support
The UK government has been forced to shelve legislation that would have transferred sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius after the US withdrew its support for the agreement. UK officials acknowledged that time had run out to pass the legislation within the current parliamentary session, which ends in the coming weeks. The agreement would have seen the UK cede sovereignty while leasing Diego Garcia, the largest island, for 99 years to continue operating the joint US-UK military base.
New Employment Law Chambers Parity Opens London
A new employment law chambers called Parity launched in London on 7 April 2026. The chambers was founded by David Stephenson and Paras Gorasia and is based in the Shard building. Parity adopts a non-hierarchical, collaborative business model differentiating it from traditional chambers, with a focus on employment law, discrimination, and whistleblowing matters.
Thlimmenos Does Not Permit Positive Discrimination - R (CKS) v Secretary of State for Education
The High Court in R (CKS and others) v Secretary of State for Education [2026] EWHC 741 (Admin) has clarified the scope of Thlimmenos discrimination under Article 14 ECHR. The Court held that Thlimmenos only applies where a claimant seeks an exception to a general rule that applies to them; it does not extend to situations where both the claimant and comparator fall outside the rule's scope. The Charedi Jewish community claimants, who sought extension of Universal Infant Free School Meals to private school pupils, cannot rely on Thlimmenos to establish discrimination requiring justification.
Carlo Tritta, 19, Jailed 28 Months for Roblox Grooming Offences
Carlo Tritta, 19, of Bishopstoke, Eastleigh, Hampshire, was sentenced to 28 months imprisonment at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court for offences including making indecent images of a child (25 Category A), sexual communications with a child, causing a child to watch a sexual act, witness intimidation, and criminal damage. Tritta initially made contact with the 14-year-old victim through Roblox in September 2024 before moving communications to Snapchat, Discord, and WhatsApp. He breached bail conditions and attended the victim's home.
Noa-Lynn van Leuven Banned from Women's Darts Events After DRA Ruling
The Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) has ruled that only biological females may compete in women's darts events, effective immediately. The ruling was based on a report commissioned from developmental biologist Dr. Emma Hilton, which determined that darts is a gender-affected sport with physical advantages favouring male competitors, including greater height, longer limbs, and more muscle mass affecting throwing mechanics and precision.
Estate Manager Awarded £392k for 827 Accrued Unpaid Holiday Days
The Watford Employment Tribunal awarded Mossadek Ageli £392,000 for 827 accrued unpaid holiday days accumulated over 25 years while employed by Sabtina Limited, plus an additional £105,000 compensation for unfair dismissal. The tribunal found Mr Ageli, who joined the Libyan-owned real estate company in 1987, was unable to take annual leave due to operational demands, and that directors refused 200 of his holiday days between 1988 and 1996.
Met Police Officer Sacked for Discriminatory Remarks in BBC Investigation
PC Charlie Cano of the Metropolitan Police was dismissed following an accelerated misconduct hearing for making discriminatory and disrespectful remarks about women during an undercover BBC Panorama investigation at Charing Cross police station. The officer was found in breach of standards for discreditable conduct, authority, respect and courtesy, and equality and diversity. This is the 10th officer found guilty of gross misconduct from the Panorama investigation, with an ongoing IOPC criminal investigation into other officers at the station.
Carer Sentenced Life, 19yr Minimum, Murdered Disabled Man
Jason Trundle, 52, was sentenced at Worcester Crown Court to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 19 years for the murder of Leon Pratt, a 64-year-old disabled man. Trundle, who was an unofficial carer, was also handed concurrent sentences of 30 months for preventing lawful burial and nine months for fraud. The court heard that Trundle moved in with Mr Pratt after meeting on social media and concealed his body for up to a month before concerned neighbours alerted emergency services.
Thornaby Pool Clerk of Works Services Contract Awarded
Stockton on Tees Borough Council awarded a £51,000 contract (including VAT) for Clerk of Works services at Thornaby Pool to Driver Project Services Limited. The contract was direct awarded under the below-threshold procedure without competition for civil engineering consultancy services. The contract runs from 31 March 2026 to 16 April 2027.
Fire Safety Remedial Works Contract £390,825 to Sureserve Compliance Fire
Central Bedfordshire Council has awarded a £390,825.38 contract for fire safety remedial works to Sureserve Compliance Fire. The contract was awarded via an approved procurement waiver without competition under the Procurement Act 2023. The 5-month contract runs from 12 April 2026 to 11 September 2026 for fire-prevention installation works.
CommonPlace Renewal Contract £70,800 Awarded to Commonplace Digital Ltd
Central Bedfordshire Council has awarded a £70,800 contract for the CommonPlace community engagement platform renewal to Commonplace Digital Ltd. The contract runs from 13 April 2026 to 31 March 2028. The procurement was conducted using a below-threshold procedure without competition under the Procurement Act 2023.
NFCC National Firefighter PPE Lot 1 Managed Service Award - £529M
Kent and Medway Towns Fire and Rescue Authority, acting for NFCC, has awarded a £529M Framework Agreement for Lot 1 (Managed Services) covering Fire Structural PPE, Wildland Fire PPE, and Technical Rescue PPE. Four suppliers have been awarded Framework Agreements: Ballyclare Ltd, Bristol Uniforms Ltd, FlamePro Global Ltd, and Hunter Apparel Solutions Ltd. A voluntary 30-day standstill period applies from 9 April 2026 to 9 May 2026.
Kent Firefighter PPE Contract, £95.2m, Awarded 9th Apr
Kent Firefighter PPE Contract, £95.2m, Awarded 9th Apr
£180k Strategic Consultancy Contract for FSCS Mission Vision Strategy
Financial Services Compensation Scheme Limited (FSCS) has awarded a £180,000 strategic consultancy contract to PA Consulting Group Limited. The contract runs from 22 January 2026 to 31 March 2026. The procurement was conducted as a below-threshold, non-competitive award under the Procurement Act 2023.
William Freer Limited Wins £149,654.40 HVAC Contract, Derbyshire County Council
Derbyshire County Council awarded a contract for HVAC servicing and maintenance to William Freer Limited. The contract is valued at £149,654.40 including VAT (£124,712 excluding VAT) for the period 1 May 2026 to 31 March 2027. The procurement was conducted as an open procedure under the Procurement Act 2023, with 18 tenders received.
London FXJSC Main Committee Meeting Minutes - November 2025
The Bank of England's Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) published minutes from its November 27, 2025 meeting. The Committee discussed FX market developments following April 2025 volatility, reviewed BIS Triennial Survey preliminary results showing global FX turnover reached a record $9.6 trillion, examined FX options market growth (doubled since 2010), and received a GFXC update on T+1 securities settlement risks.
FXJSC Combined Operations and Legal Sub-Committee Meeting Minutes, 24th November 2025
The Bank of England published meeting minutes from the FXJSC Operations and Legal Sub-Committee meeting held on 24 November 2025. Key discussions included ISDA FX definition updates (go-live November 2027), Swift ISO 20022 migration completion in November 2025, CLS average volumes increasing to USD 8.5 trillion daily, and the use of AI in FX markets. The ISDA definition changes include digitised format updates, EMTA integration, and calendar adjustment events.