Reforming the Arbitration Act 1996 - Bar Council comment

Responding to the Law Commission's recommendations to improve the Arbitration Act 1996, Nick Vineall KC, Chair of the Bar Council, said:

"We welcome the Law Commission’s characteristically careful and balanced review of the Arbitration Act, and we support the proposals for reform which it makes. It is extremely important that the government finds parliamentary time for the short bill which the Law Commission proposes. 

"London has a well-deserved reputation as the foremost centre for International Arbitration. It is important to legislate to make the modest changes to the arbitration regime which the Law Commission has recommended in order to maintain and enhance that reputation."  

The Law Commission has published final recommendations to update the Arbitration Act 1996 and puts forward draft legislation. The Commission’s recommendations seek to ensure the law remains fit for purpose and promotes the UK as a leading destination for international arbitration.

The full report is available on the Law Commission website.

Download the Bar Council's submission (May 2023) to the Law Commission's public consultation.