Arbitration Bill re-introduced to Parliament

The Arbitration Bill was introduced into Parliament today. The Bill enacts the recommendations of the Law Commission to reform arbitration law.

The Law Commission was asked by the Government to review the Arbitration Act 1996, to determine whether there might be any amendments to be made in order to ensure that it is fit for purpose and that it continues to promote the UK as a leading destination for commercial arbitration. Following a consultation period, the Law Commission published its recommendations in September 2023.

The introduction of the Arbitration Bill was announced in the King’s Speech of 17 July 2024. The Government says that the Bill will bolster our world-leading domestic and international arbitration sector, attract international legal business, and promote UK economic growth.

The Bill was previously introduced in the last Parliament in November 2023, but was lost when the general election was called. Although the legislative process must start over again, the Bill as introduced reflects the changes agreed during its previous passage. The Arbitration Bill can be found here, and will now go through the House of Lords before going to the House of Commons.

Commissioner for Commercial and Common Law, Professor Sarah Green has said, ”We are delighted that the Government has re-introduced the Arbitration Bill, implementing the Law Commission’s recommendations. Our proposed changes to the Arbitration Act 1996, which we have put together in close consultation with stakeholders, will ensure that the legislation continues to promote this jurisdiction as a leading destination for commercial arbitration.”

Further information about our Arbitration law reform project, including our recommendations, can be found on the project page.