The recent high-profile cyber breaches at Marks & Spencer, the Co-operative Group, and the Legal Aid Agency underscore the risks that even large, well-resourced organisations face in managing personal data. These incidents also demonstrate the importance of maintaining not only effective security measures, but also robust breach response plans, as required by the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
In today’s fast-paced commercial environment, Supply Agreements are the backbone of many business operations. Whether you’re a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer, having a robust and legally sound supply contract is essential to mitigate risk, ensure continuity, and maintain strong commercial relationships.
A business’s terms and conditions can be a life saver if care is taken when drafting them. Of the many points which ought to be considered, addressing the fixed recoverable costs (FRC) regime introduced in the courts recently should be high on the list.
All businesses should have robust terms and conditions in place which set out the legal framework for the relationship between the business and its customers. This will help to ensure clarity and protection for both parties involved in commercial transactions.
Concern for the environment is at an all-time high. There is greater awareness, both on an individual and corporate level, of the impact of our daily activities and choices on the environment. ‘Sustainability’, ‘carbon footprint’ and ‘environmental impact’ are topics that now regularly appear on company websites and on their meeting agendas.
The government has recently introduced new laws aimed at tackling corruption, money laundering and fraud involving corporate entities. The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (the Act) received royal assent on 26 October 2023, and aims to reform the way in which economic crime is tackled and to improve the transparency over corporate organisations.
Intellectual property (IP) covers ‘creations of the mind’ which can include inventions, designs, symbols and names and logos used in business. It is protected by law (copyright, trademarks, and various other forms), allowing people to earn recognition and/or money from what they create. Like other property, IP can be bought, sold, or licensed. There are different types of intellectual property rights including:
Last week, the UK Foreign Secretary, Liz Truss, announced a ban on certain professional and PR services exports from the UK to Russia. The banned services include management consulting, public relations and accounting. The Foreign Secretary commented that the ban will help to ensure that Putin fails in Ukraine, by cutting off service exports that are fundamental to the Russian economy.
The UK Government recently imposed sanctions on Russia in light of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Asset freezes have been imposed on a number of individuals and entities. More information on individuals and entities subject to an asset freeze (“designated persons”) can be found on the UK Government’s website: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/financial-sanctions-consolidated-list-of-targets
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Bermans has appointed a new head of its commercial team and a litigation partner as it continues to strengthen its ranks with key strategic hires.
