UK

Payments Forward Plan Published by Committee

The Payments Vision Delivery Committee, comprising HM Treasury, Bank of England, FCA, and PSR, has published the Payments Forward Plan. This plan outlines upcoming initiatives in retail and wholesale payments, including digital assets, to foster innovation and economic growth.

CMA Investigates ABF Acquisition of Hovis Merger

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into the anticipated acquisition of Hovis Group Limited by Associated British Foods plc. The inquiry is currently in Phase 2, with a statutory deadline of June 24, 2026.

CMA Investigates Hays Travel Merger

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched merger inquiries into Hays Travel's acquisitions of Polka Dot Travel and Millington Travel. Initial enforcement orders have been served, and phase 1 decision deadlines are set for April 2026.

Homes England Subsidy Referral for 2020 Developments Luton

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published its final report advising Homes England on a proposed £29.5 million subsidy to 2020 Developments (Luton) Limited. This subsidy is for infrastructure development to unlock residential and employment space.

CMA Merger Inquiry: LDC acquires Green Label

The CMA has opened a merger inquiry into the acquisition of Green Label Holdings Limited by Société LDC SA. An initial enforcement order has been served, and an invitation to comment is open until March 9, 2026, to gather views on potential competition impacts.

Post Office Subsidy Scheme Report and Consultation

The CMA's Subsidy Advice Unit has accepted a request for a report on the proposed £609.2m Post Office Transformation Subsidy Scheme. The Department for Business and Trade is seeking advice on compliance with subsidy control requirements. Comments are due by March 11, 2026.

School Uniforms Act Northern Ireland 2026 Guidelines and Allowances

The School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 mandates the Department of Education to issue binding guidelines on school uniform policies and requires the Education Authority to extend eligibility for school clothing allowances. The Act aims to ensure fairness, practicality, and affordability in school uniform policies.

Plant Varieties Act Amendment Regulations 2026

The UK Secretary of State has issued the Plant Varieties Act (Amendment) Regulations 2026, amending the Plant Varieties Act 1997. These regulations clarify the definition of 'small farmer' concerning farm saved seed, with no significant impact foreseen on businesses.

Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Act (Northern Ireland) 2026

The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 has been enacted, amending the law on the notification of deaths and still-births. It introduces provisions for electronic means of notification and the issuance of certificates recognizing baby loss.

A249 Trunk Road Key Street Slip Road Order 2026

This statutory instrument, the A249 Trunk Road Key Street Slip Road Order 2026, establishes new road infrastructure within the UK. It details specific changes to the A249 Trunk Road, including the Key Street slip road. The order is part of the UK's ongoing road network development.