Managing Covid-19
The coronavirus (COVID-19) poses considerable risks and challenges for all sectors, across all regions.
For businesses, the implications range from immediate impacts on business travel, commercial activity and workforces to the knock-on effects on cashflow, debt repayment and covenant compliance, contractual performance, regulatory compliance and legal liability.
On this page you will find our latest insights on the legal issues relating to coronavirus and the actions that businesses should be taking now to prepare.
If you would like to discuss how we can help you identify and mitigate the risks to your business, please contact one of the experts listed below or your usual Osborne Clarke contact.
Article list
Employment Law Coffee Break: Sickness absence, generative AI and our HR Pensions spotlight for September
Why aggregation matters in insurance contracts in England and Wales
How can employers adapt to the evolving international employment law landscape?
UK Landlord and Tenant: Why an overhaul of the 1954 Act is a risky business
Osborne Clarke property disputes partner, Kate New, writes for leading real estate title, EG, on the government's proposals to review...
UK Employment Law Coffee Break | Autumn statement, redundancy selection and our HR immigration spotlight
Coroner reforms in the UK: what happened this summer?
Court of Appeal rules in favour of landlord in Covid-19 arrears claim relating to the Trocadero cinema in London
Landmark arbitration finds UK retailer’s Covid arrears are not protected rent debt
Employment Law Coffee Break | Protected beliefs and discrimination, long Covid and our workforce solutions podcast series
UK Insolvency Service publishes interim report on the effectiveness of measures introduced by the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020
Employment Law Coffee Break | Acas uplift for sham redundancy, agency staff and strikes, and a podcast on employment status issues
Medical device, clinical trial and safety rules reforms could boost UK life sciences
New WTO Covid-19 vaccine IP waiver proposed
A new vaccine IP waiver proposal has been published by the WTO Director-General following informal negotiations between the EU, India...
Employment Law Coffee Break | Discrimination in working arrangements, mental health and wellbeing, and our April HR Pensions spotlight
Employment Law Coffee Break | Fire and rehire, Covid-19 update, Vento increases and our March pensions spotlight
New binding arbitration process introduced to manage recovery of pandemic commercial rent arrears
Employment Law Coffee Break: Managing Covid-19 in the workplace - some FAQs
Employment Law Coffee Break: Increase in compensation limits, Covid-19 update, new working practices and disabled employees, and pension age
Employers in the post-pandemic world need to attract talent and protect business
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19, the metaverse and workforce strategies
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, fire and re-hire, right to work checks and apprenticeships
Future living: How proptech is transforming home buying
Employment Law Coffee Break | IR35 compliance, Covid-19 update, and grievances and ET claims
Home and away: working across borders
Predictions 2022: What could be in store for US and international business?
Covid-19 and mental health figure large in latest health and safety statistics
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, more key cases in 2021, our latest webinar recording and disability workforce reporting
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, key cases in 2021, and whistleblowing
Trade secrets remain the sticking point in global debate over a vaccine IP waiver
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, new statutory pay rates and 'green jobs and green HR'
Employment Law Coffee Break: Social gatherings, freedom of expression and employer reputation, and our HR pensions spotlight for November
Employment Law Coffee Break: Covid-19 update, fire and re-hire, and our immigration spotlight for November
Driving change in employment in 2022: the challenges that arise from accelerating transformational change
Employment Law Coffee Break: Covid-19 update, banter in the workplace and holiday pay
Parliament announces new Code of Practice and arbitration scheme for coronavirus-related commercial rent arrears
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, menopause at work, and flexible working and sexual harassment
Employment Law Coffee Break: Covid-19 update, flexible working back in the ET and our latest HR pensions spotlight
Welcome to our Employment Law Coffee Break in which we look at the latest legal and practical developments impacting UK...
Employment Law Coffee Break: Covid-19 update, hybrid working and managing IP and commercial risks, and a new health and social care levy
Welcome to our latest Employment Law Coffee Break in which we look at the latest legal developments impacting UK employers.
Immigration Update: The right to work
With the Home Office constantly changing its position with regards to how employers may conduct right-to-work checks in the light...
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, flexible working, Court of Appeal ruling on redundancy appeals, age discrimination and our September pensions spotlight
Welcome to our latest Employment Law Coffee Break in which we look at the latest legal developments impacting UK employers.
Covid-19 updated 'working safely' guidance published: what does this mean for office-based businesses?
Employers should consider the new government guidance when updating their health and safety risk assessments and processes
Debate intensifies over a vaccine IP waiver's impact on future pharma and biotech discoveries
Does a proposed patent suspension backed by Washington open a Pandora's box for vaccine R&D and investment?
Construction disputes in a pandemic: a favoured forum?
As claims and disputes arising from the Covid-19 crisis are likely to increase in the construction industry, will there be...
What can guidance on responsible contractual behaviours do for a construction industry hit hard by the pandemic?
Will the government's guidance on "responsible contractual behaviour" or good faith come to the rescue of parties in the sector...
Blockchain and its role in the fight against Covid
With the ability to provide a secure and reliable record of vaccine delivery, the technology is set to play a...
Covid-19 and the construction industry
What are the longer-term opportunities and resiliency measures for the construction industry?
Employment Law Coffee Break Podcast | Covid-19 vaccination roll out in Sweden
Lockdown 3.0: Construction continues but challenges remain
In this insight, we briefly discuss the latest government restrictions and what it means for the construction industry. This article...
Employment Law Coffee Break Podcast | Covid-19 vaccination roll out in Italy
Edtech comes of age in the coronavirus crisis: what next?
The pandemic has accelerated the global uptake of edtech as slower UK pace picks up too
Coronavirus Job Support Scheme set to change the pensions picture from November
Employers need to review pension and life assurance arrangements as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ends and the Job Support...
Chancellor sets out further economic measures to weather the COVID-19 storm
The UK government has set out its Winter Economy Plan, its latest stimulus package which provides more targeted support for...
UK government announces Job Support Scheme to protect 'viable jobs'
The chancellor has announced new measures for employers to support jobs when the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) ends on...
Can you rely on your force majeure clause?
As the pandemic continues to affect ongoing contractual relationships, the wording of a contract is crucial to determine whether delays...
Has Covid-19 made IRR an irrelevant measure of success?
As confidence starts to return to the market, fund managers and investors are assessing the financial effects of the Covid-19...
Life sciences companies turn to public markets for injections of capital
London markets have remained open during the pandemic allowing for a surge in life sciences and healthcare sector deals including...
Food advertising guidance bans any reference to Covid-19
Regulator's tough stance means that even implicit references to Covid-19 in food advertising will be construed as a medicinal claim...
HMRC publishes employment-related securities update
Further updates issued on the impact of coronavirus on Enterprise Management Incentive options.
HMRC confirms that new EMI options can be granted to furloughed employees
Enterprise Management Incentive options may be granted to employees on furlough or working reduced hours due to the coronavirus emergency.
HMRC makes first arrest for fraud in relation to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
HMRC's first arrest in relation to the government's furlough scheme provides a warning to businesses, particularly given the potential for...
Covid-19: Pensions developments tracker | 18 June 2020 – 9 July 2020
This tracker is a summary of the legal and regulatory developments arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic that will be...
Chancellor announces package of economic measures to help steer the UK out of COVID-19 crisis
The government's latest stimulus package provides much-needed support for job creation, as well as providing a boost to the hospitality...
Regulator offers 'back to basics' Covid-19 guidance for contribution deferral proposals
What steps should be taken when making a new contribution deferral request? There are important takeaways to draw from the...
State aid | European Commission amends Temporary Framework for a third time to include aid for micro and small companies
Micro and small companies, including start-ups, may benefit from aid; while recapitalisation measures have been modified for businesses in general.
Telecoms in a post-Covid world
Covid-19 has affected the way in which we all communicate, whether that's working at home, being with friends and family...
Pandemic pushes HMRC into six-month deferral of reporting deadlines for DAC6 directive
The deferral is in line with other Member States' approach to extending the reporting dates for disclosing cross-border tax arrangements...
Customer financial difficulties and Covid-19: what do lenders need to learn after lockdown?
As the UK's financial regulator reviews emergency guidance amid the easing of lockdown and lending patterns adapt, its £64 million...
UK government legislates to shield businesses vital for public health from foreign takeovers
The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted the global economy and left UK businesses with critical capabilities, such as manufacturers of personal...
Restrictions on landlords' enforcement options to be extended as government introduces Covid-19 code of practice
On 19 June 2020, the government announced its intention to extend restrictions on forfeiture, Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery and the...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | Employees, furloughing and testing
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing. This edition focuses principally on issues around employees, furloughing, and monitoring and testing.
HMRC guidance | homeworking and expenses and benefits provided during coronavirus
HMRC has published guidance on various employee tax issues which are regularly arising for employers in connection with the pandemic.
Changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: Three actions for employers
Following the extension of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) to 31 October 2020, the government has provided updated guidance...
Exiting lockdown | How to remain privacy-compliant when carrying out medical monitoring and testing
Medical monitoring and testing plays a vital role in combatting Covid-19, but it is important to remain compliant with privacy...
Retail brands during lockdown: the winners and losers
Which brands and areas of retail will emerge from the Covid-19 crisis ahead and which will have fallen behind?
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme risks: Government announces clawback regime
Many companies are receiving very large payments from HMRC under the job retention scheme, with the government reported to be...
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: 10 June cut off and 'flexible furloughing' from July
As the government looks to kick-start the economy, employers will need to consider how flexible furloughing and a slow tapering...
Investor challenges amid the Covid-19 crisis create a platform for social change
As investors turn their minds to a gradual return from lockdown, those with a focus on ESG – and how...
The 'NHS Test and Trace Service': What does this mean for employers?
Employers will need to understand and carefully manage their role in the test and trace process, and the potential impact...
Future M&A in the Workforce Solutions sector: how will companies do deals and preserve value in a post lockdown world?
The attention of many businesses in the past few months has been on cash management and self-preservation. However, there are...
State aid | Part IV– European Commission amends Temporary Framework for a second time to include aid recapitalisation and subordinated debt measures
Companies with longer-term solvency problems have more possibilities to benefit from recapitalisation and obtain subordinated debt following an update of...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | The activist state
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing, our newsletter on business law issues in these sombre times. In this edition...
Additional restrictions to be imposed on commercial landlords' enforcement options
New law to make it easier to hold AGMs during lockdown
The government has published its Corporate Insolvency and Governance Bill, which contains important measures for companies that need to hold...
ILPA response to select committee inquiry into Home Office's Covid-19 record
Does UK government COVID-19 support come with strings attached?
Will the government impose restrictions on the activities of companies which have accessed the UK government's COVID-19 support mechanisms –...
International guide | Navigating government COVID-19 support measures
Although governments are beginning tentatively to ease lockdown restrictions, for many, it will take some time before trading returns to...
CLBILS gets larger: Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme cap to increase
The Treasury is reportedly considering increasing the cap on CLBILS from loans of £50m to £200m.
Pushing the envelope: practical tips for executing documents using DocuSign
Electronic signature platforms have become an invaluable and trusted way to execute documents remotely; in this article we set out...
Coronavirus | Protecting your UK business: an overview
As the UK government begins to lift restrictions, for many there will be a shift in the operational, financial and...
Business interruption loan schemes and Covid-19: a real estate finance perspective
What can the government's emergency loan schemes offer the real estate finance market?
Housing market reopens in England with strict Covid-19 social distancing conditions
As the residential property market emerges from lockdown and resumes activity in England, businesses will need to tread carefully to...
Government guidance on responsible contractual behaviour
Overview and analysis of the new guidance from The Cabinet Office and the Infrastructure and Projects Authority
To agility and beyond: 'work from home' reprise highlights the need for a change in employer practices
The government response to Covid-19 raises the possibility that homeworking and the opening and closing of workspaces will be a...
Extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: Welcome news for employers but details awaited
The government has announced that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will now be extended until the end of October...
What can businesses learn from understanding how the lockdown regulations are put together?
In this article, Osborne Clarke's John Cleverly – a former government lawyer and a member of our Regulatory team –...
Latest case of force majeure offers lessons for businesses affected by COVID-19
On 24 April 2020, the English High Court issued a new decision concerning force majeure, which will be instructive as...
UK's post-Brexit hopes for international disputes face setback
Plans to use two international regimes – the Hague and the Lugano conventions – to maintain the UK's status as...
Business Continuity in a Crisis: practical steps and legal guidance
As we settle into the business environment created by COVID-19, it is crucial that companies dedicate their efforts to business...
Pensions developments tracker
This tracker is a summary of the legal and regulatory developments arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic which will be...
Government opens consultation on relaxing Capacity Market requirements in response to COVID-19
On 24 April, the government launched a consultation seeking views on how it could relax certain requirements of the Capacity...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | The latest on the UK government's funding schemes for business
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing, our newsletter on business law issues in these sombre times.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme | HMRC portal open and further guidance published
Broadcasters and Covid-19: Europe's broadcast regulators tackle disruption and uncertainty
The Covid-19 crisis has had a huge impact on the broadcast industry, disrupting recent trends and shaping regulatory guidance and...
Tax compliance and Covid-19: HMRC takes new approach to investigations and disputes
Amid a range of actions to help businesses through the coronavirus emergency, HMRC's new policy on tax compliance raises practical...
Staffing and the Covid-19 crisis: further details of the CJRS published
What do HM Treasury directions mean for staffing and umbrella companies hoping to use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme?
Pensions developments tracker
This tracker is a summary of the legal and regulatory developments arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic which will be...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | The EU's exit strategy for business
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing, our newsletter on business law issues in these sombre times.
European competition law and Covid-19: exceptional rules for business cooperation
Antitrust rules have been eased temporarily by the European Commission to allow closer business cooperation – especially for the health...
Investors visas and coronavirus: what you need to know
While stock markets around the world face turbulent times, and major currencies drop in value, it is important that anyone...
Dispute Resolution and COVID-19 | Resolving commercial disputes through remote mediation
Remote mediation will come into its own in the coming months as businesses grapple with disruption in the court system...
State aid | Part III – European Commission amends Temporary Framework to include aid for Life Sciences sector
Life sciences businesses working on Covid-19 related products may be able to benefit from government funding for a range of...
COVID-19 | Lockdown and 'walk away' clauses: Is Covid-19 a MAC event under English law?
As the UK economy contends with the coronavirus crisis, affected businesses will want to know when and whether conditions are...
Diversifying into Covid-19 protection products : relaxation of the regulatory regime
In light of the impact of Covid-19 on businesses and the critical need for additional supplies for frontline staff and...
Can a company director or secretary or LLP member be furloughed?
The UK government's guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was updated on 4 April 2020 to clarify how it...
Furloughing staff during the Covid-19 crisis: government update for employers
The latest guidance on the government's scheme for businesses to retain employees and protect workforces takes steps to recognise that...
Job Retention Scheme: further guidance issued for suppliers of temps
HMRC issued further guidance on the Job Retention Scheme (JRS) on Saturday 4 April 2020. Some but not all areas...
German business and the coronavirus: How companies can secure liquidity and other FAQs.
With many German companies facing a substantial decline in revenues and potential insolvency as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak...
New FCA lending guidance offers temporary financial relief for customers
As Covid-19 bites on economic activity in the UK, consumer credit firms are now expected to take steps to help...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | What we're seeing
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing, our newsletter on business law issues in these sombre times.
Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme 2.0: "The Overhaul"
Amid concerns that SMEs were being denied access to the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and that a 'squeezed middle'...
COVID-19: Potential impact on Indian employers in major commercial hubs - Central lockdown imposed
Originally published by our relationship firm BTG Legal , the legal adviser to Osborne Clarke’s clients in India, this PDF...
Right to Work update: checks in the time of coronavirus
The Home Office has published new guidance (30 March 2020) on how employers may conduct Right to Work checks given...
Food deliveries: Covid-19 and what to consider when switching to a 'to-the-door' service
Amid the mandatory closure of bars, restaurants, pubs and others, UK food and drink businesses converting to delivery services need...
How is COVID-19 impacting the planning system, and what are the risks for developers?
Local planning authorities have been urged to be flexible in light of the current crisis, but with many issues outside...
Coronavirus A guide for your business
COVID-19 – and the measures governments have implemented to slow the spread of the virus – represent an unprecedented challenge...
Q&A | Employment law issues and practical considerations during the COVID-19 crisis
COVID-19 is creating new challenges for employers - and employment law.
Job retention: COVID-19 emergency guidance and five actions for employers
In light of more guidance on the government's scheme to help retain UK jobs, employers must assess how to take...
JRS and SSEP: what they mean for workforces
What do the COVID-19 emergency measures Job Retention Scheme and Statutory Self-Employed Pay mean for users and suppliers of contractors...
Electronic signatures: COVID-19 and 'business as (un)usual'
As the impact of Covid-19 prompts businesses to rethink and adapt the ways they work, it is more important than...
Special Measures under Companies Act, 2013 and Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008 proposed by Ministry of Corporate Affairs & SEBI for COVID-19
Originally published by our relationship firm BTG Legal , the legal adviser to Osborne Clarke’s clients in India, this PDF...
Competition law in times of crisis: Can you get a free pass?
COVID-19 has affected our world in unprecedented ways. Hardly any industry is spared from the serious economic consequences. Though some...
COVID-19: Potential impact on employers in India's major commercial hubs
Originally published by our relationship firm BTG Legal , the legal adviser to Osborne Clarke’s clients in India, this PDF...
UK government to ban evictions of commercial tenants
With 25 March 2020 being a rent quarter day, government intervention to prevent evictions will be welcomed by commercial tenants...
Right to Work | Employers and checks in the time of coronavirus
Many clients have contacted us seeking advice on how they remain compliant with the law regarding Right to Work (RTW)...
What effects does the coronavirus have on civil proceedings in Germany?
The coronavirus / COVID 19 is currently not only bringing public life almost to a halt, but also has a...
Will the job retention scheme be available for agency workers? How we will support staffing, consultancies and other workforce solutions businesses on this and other issues
Osborne Clarke is well known for having many clients and contacts in the staffing, consultancy and recruitment sector and we...
Proposed measures by India's Ministry of Corporate Affairs & SEBI for COVID-19
Originally published by our relationship firm BTG Legal , the legal adviser to Osborne Clarke’s clients in India, this PDF...
State aid | How can governments support businesses in the midst of the coronavirus crisis? Part II – European Commission Temporary Framework
As the coronavirus causes the risk of significant economic losses for companies and for citizens across the Union, the European...
UK COVID-19 Corporate Financing Facility: how does it work and which companies are eligible?
Initial details of the government's much-publicised support package has given rise to concerns that a large chunk of UK PLC...
Listed company AGMs: the COVID-19 factor
March to May in any year is typically the period during which listed companies with financial years ending on 31...
Students and accommodation providers braced for coronavirus disruption
The anticipated spread of coronavirus across educational institutions, cancellation of exams and temporary closures of universities is set to cause...
Coronavirus | Preserving your legal position in adversity
State aid | How can governments support businesses in the midst of the coronavirus crisis?
As the coronavirus causes significant economic losses for companies and for the citizens across the Union, affected businesses are asking...
Corporate transactions: the impact of COVID-19 internationally
With coronavirus now officially categorised by the World Health Organization as a pandemic, businesses will be renewing their focus on...
Will coronavirus be a force majeure event? It depends on your governing law
Where coronavirus causes business disruption, from fulfilment of deliveries to cancellation of events, a common question is whether commercial parties...
Budget 2020: employers to benefit from £12 billion plan to firefight coronavirus
Chancellor Rishi Sunak today (11 March 2020) delivered in his first Budget a coronavirus battle plan that promises to keep...
International employers: five considerations amid the Covid-19 emergency
Employers faced with coping with the coronavirus (Covid 19) outbreak need to put in place measures to protect, as far...
Preliminary remarks on the Italian Government's urgent provisions for COVID-19
Osborne Clarke has prepared a report to help clients dealing with the various legal issues arising from the DPCM 8...
Coronavirus | A guide for your business
The coronavirus represents a unique challenge for businesses playing their part in looking after staff and customers, while continuing to...
Corporate tax residency: potential implications of COVID-19
Coronavirus-related travel restrictions may cause problems for certain non-UK companies if non-UK-resident directors cannot physically attend UK board meetings.
Coronavirus and employer liability | the limits in France
The coronavirus (Covid-19) epidemic that is affecting many countries requires every employer to take the necessary measures to protect its...
Coronavirus | Update on the impact for UK immigration
As the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread and the UK steps up its readiness, businesses need to be aware of...
Coronavirus set to stress corporate finance arrangements
With market pressures likely to lead to many businesses triggering events of default and material adverse change clauses, it is...
Coronavirus in commercial property: what action should you take?
The effect of coronavirus has hit the real estate market, lowering stock market values, postponing MIPIM and causing concern across...
Coronavirus | Good practice for personal data processing in France
What is best practice when a company processes personal data for the protection of its employees against Coronavirus?
Coronavirus: the provision of temporary staff during an epidemic
Businesses and employer organisations will need to keep going as best they can during the more disruptive period of any...
How will coronavirus impact corporate transactions and reporting?
As the situation in the UK and around the world evolves rapidly, many businesses will be focussed on the immediate...
Coronavirus | An update for UK employers as ACAS issues workplace guidance
The risk in the UK of coronavirus (COVID-19) has moved from low to moderate, with 35 cases now confirmed within...
Coronavirus: force majeure, supply chains and contractual performance
The coronavirus is having a substantial economic impact, disrupting production, supply chains and travel. Businesses need to consider the legal...
The Coronavirus: what do employers need to know and do?
The Coronavirus continues to dominate headlines around the globe. On 30 January 2020, the World Health Organisation declared that the...
Court of Appeal examines aggregation issues in insurance contracts in England and Wales
Employment Law Coffee Break: Sickness absence, generative AI and our HR Pensions spotlight for September
Why aggregation matters in insurance contracts in England and Wales
How can employers adapt to the evolving international employment law landscape?
UK Landlord and Tenant: Why an overhaul of the 1954 Act is a risky business
Osborne Clarke property disputes partner, Kate New, writes for leading real estate title, EG, on the government's proposals to review...
UK Employment Law Coffee Break | Autumn statement, redundancy selection and our HR immigration spotlight
Coroner reforms in the UK: what happened this summer?
Court of Appeal rules in favour of landlord in Covid-19 arrears claim relating to the Trocadero cinema in London
Landmark arbitration finds UK retailer’s Covid arrears are not protected rent debt
Employment Law Coffee Break | Protected beliefs and discrimination, long Covid and our workforce solutions podcast series
UK Insolvency Service publishes interim report on the effectiveness of measures introduced by the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020
Employment Law Coffee Break | Acas uplift for sham redundancy, agency staff and strikes, and a podcast on employment status issues
Medical device, clinical trial and safety rules reforms could boost UK life sciences
New WTO Covid-19 vaccine IP waiver proposed
A new vaccine IP waiver proposal has been published by the WTO Director-General following informal negotiations between the EU, India...
Employment Law Coffee Break | Discrimination in working arrangements, mental health and wellbeing, and our April HR Pensions spotlight
Employment Law Coffee Break | Fire and rehire, Covid-19 update, Vento increases and our March pensions spotlight
New binding arbitration process introduced to manage recovery of pandemic commercial rent arrears
Employment Law Coffee Break: Managing Covid-19 in the workplace - some FAQs
Employment Law Coffee Break: Increase in compensation limits, Covid-19 update, new working practices and disabled employees, and pension age
Employers in the post-pandemic world need to attract talent and protect business
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19, the metaverse and workforce strategies
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, fire and re-hire, right to work checks and apprenticeships
Future living: How proptech is transforming home buying
Employment Law Coffee Break | IR35 compliance, Covid-19 update, and grievances and ET claims
Home and away: working across borders
Predictions 2022: What could be in store for US and international business?
Covid-19 and mental health figure large in latest health and safety statistics
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, more key cases in 2021, our latest webinar recording and disability workforce reporting
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, key cases in 2021, and whistleblowing
Trade secrets remain the sticking point in global debate over a vaccine IP waiver
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, new statutory pay rates and 'green jobs and green HR'
Employment Law Coffee Break: Social gatherings, freedom of expression and employer reputation, and our HR pensions spotlight for November
Employment Law Coffee Break: Covid-19 update, fire and re-hire, and our immigration spotlight for November
Driving change in employment in 2022: the challenges that arise from accelerating transformational change
Employment Law Coffee Break: Covid-19 update, banter in the workplace and holiday pay
Parliament announces new Code of Practice and arbitration scheme for coronavirus-related commercial rent arrears
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, menopause at work, and flexible working and sexual harassment
Employment Law Coffee Break: Covid-19 update, flexible working back in the ET and our latest HR pensions spotlight
Welcome to our Employment Law Coffee Break in which we look at the latest legal and practical developments impacting UK...
Employment Law Coffee Break: Covid-19 update, hybrid working and managing IP and commercial risks, and a new health and social care levy
Welcome to our latest Employment Law Coffee Break in which we look at the latest legal developments impacting UK employers.
Immigration Update: The right to work
With the Home Office constantly changing its position with regards to how employers may conduct right-to-work checks in the light...
Employment Law Coffee Break | Covid-19 update, flexible working, Court of Appeal ruling on redundancy appeals, age discrimination and our September pensions spotlight
Welcome to our latest Employment Law Coffee Break in which we look at the latest legal developments impacting UK employers.
Covid-19 updated 'working safely' guidance published: what does this mean for office-based businesses?
Employers should consider the new government guidance when updating their health and safety risk assessments and processes
Debate intensifies over a vaccine IP waiver's impact on future pharma and biotech discoveries
Does a proposed patent suspension backed by Washington open a Pandora's box for vaccine R&D and investment?
Construction disputes in a pandemic: a favoured forum?
As claims and disputes arising from the Covid-19 crisis are likely to increase in the construction industry, will there be...
What can guidance on responsible contractual behaviours do for a construction industry hit hard by the pandemic?
Will the government's guidance on "responsible contractual behaviour" or good faith come to the rescue of parties in the sector...
Blockchain and its role in the fight against Covid
With the ability to provide a secure and reliable record of vaccine delivery, the technology is set to play a...
Covid-19 and the construction industry
What are the longer-term opportunities and resiliency measures for the construction industry?
Employment Law Coffee Break Podcast | Covid-19 vaccination roll out in Sweden
Lockdown 3.0: Construction continues but challenges remain
In this insight, we briefly discuss the latest government restrictions and what it means for the construction industry. This article...
Employment Law Coffee Break Podcast | Covid-19 vaccination roll out in Italy
Edtech comes of age in the coronavirus crisis: what next?
The pandemic has accelerated the global uptake of edtech as slower UK pace picks up too
Coronavirus Job Support Scheme set to change the pensions picture from November
Employers need to review pension and life assurance arrangements as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ends and the Job Support...
Chancellor sets out further economic measures to weather the COVID-19 storm
The UK government has set out its Winter Economy Plan, its latest stimulus package which provides more targeted support for...
UK government announces Job Support Scheme to protect 'viable jobs'
The chancellor has announced new measures for employers to support jobs when the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) ends on...
Can you rely on your force majeure clause?
As the pandemic continues to affect ongoing contractual relationships, the wording of a contract is crucial to determine whether delays...
Has Covid-19 made IRR an irrelevant measure of success?
As confidence starts to return to the market, fund managers and investors are assessing the financial effects of the Covid-19...
Life sciences companies turn to public markets for injections of capital
London markets have remained open during the pandemic allowing for a surge in life sciences and healthcare sector deals including...
Food advertising guidance bans any reference to Covid-19
Regulator's tough stance means that even implicit references to Covid-19 in food advertising will be construed as a medicinal claim...
HMRC publishes employment-related securities update
Further updates issued on the impact of coronavirus on Enterprise Management Incentive options.
HMRC confirms that new EMI options can be granted to furloughed employees
Enterprise Management Incentive options may be granted to employees on furlough or working reduced hours due to the coronavirus emergency.
HMRC makes first arrest for fraud in relation to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
HMRC's first arrest in relation to the government's furlough scheme provides a warning to businesses, particularly given the potential for...
Covid-19: Pensions developments tracker | 18 June 2020 – 9 July 2020
This tracker is a summary of the legal and regulatory developments arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic that will be...
Chancellor announces package of economic measures to help steer the UK out of COVID-19 crisis
The government's latest stimulus package provides much-needed support for job creation, as well as providing a boost to the hospitality...
Regulator offers 'back to basics' Covid-19 guidance for contribution deferral proposals
What steps should be taken when making a new contribution deferral request? There are important takeaways to draw from the...
State aid | European Commission amends Temporary Framework for a third time to include aid for micro and small companies
Micro and small companies, including start-ups, may benefit from aid; while recapitalisation measures have been modified for businesses in general.
Telecoms in a post-Covid world
Covid-19 has affected the way in which we all communicate, whether that's working at home, being with friends and family...
Pandemic pushes HMRC into six-month deferral of reporting deadlines for DAC6 directive
The deferral is in line with other Member States' approach to extending the reporting dates for disclosing cross-border tax arrangements...
Customer financial difficulties and Covid-19: what do lenders need to learn after lockdown?
As the UK's financial regulator reviews emergency guidance amid the easing of lockdown and lending patterns adapt, its £64 million...
UK government legislates to shield businesses vital for public health from foreign takeovers
The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted the global economy and left UK businesses with critical capabilities, such as manufacturers of personal...
Restrictions on landlords' enforcement options to be extended as government introduces Covid-19 code of practice
On 19 June 2020, the government announced its intention to extend restrictions on forfeiture, Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery and the...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | Employees, furloughing and testing
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing. This edition focuses principally on issues around employees, furloughing, and monitoring and testing.
HMRC guidance | homeworking and expenses and benefits provided during coronavirus
HMRC has published guidance on various employee tax issues which are regularly arising for employers in connection with the pandemic.
Changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: Three actions for employers
Following the extension of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) to 31 October 2020, the government has provided updated guidance...
Exiting lockdown | How to remain privacy-compliant when carrying out medical monitoring and testing
Medical monitoring and testing plays a vital role in combatting Covid-19, but it is important to remain compliant with privacy...
Retail brands during lockdown: the winners and losers
Which brands and areas of retail will emerge from the Covid-19 crisis ahead and which will have fallen behind?
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme risks: Government announces clawback regime
Many companies are receiving very large payments from HMRC under the job retention scheme, with the government reported to be...
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: 10 June cut off and 'flexible furloughing' from July
As the government looks to kick-start the economy, employers will need to consider how flexible furloughing and a slow tapering...
Investor challenges amid the Covid-19 crisis create a platform for social change
As investors turn their minds to a gradual return from lockdown, those with a focus on ESG – and how...
The 'NHS Test and Trace Service': What does this mean for employers?
Employers will need to understand and carefully manage their role in the test and trace process, and the potential impact...
Future M&A in the Workforce Solutions sector: how will companies do deals and preserve value in a post lockdown world?
The attention of many businesses in the past few months has been on cash management and self-preservation. However, there are...
State aid | Part IV– European Commission amends Temporary Framework for a second time to include aid recapitalisation and subordinated debt measures
Companies with longer-term solvency problems have more possibilities to benefit from recapitalisation and obtain subordinated debt following an update of...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | The activist state
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing, our newsletter on business law issues in these sombre times. In this edition...
Additional restrictions to be imposed on commercial landlords' enforcement options
New law to make it easier to hold AGMs during lockdown
The government has published its Corporate Insolvency and Governance Bill, which contains important measures for companies that need to hold...
ILPA response to select committee inquiry into Home Office's Covid-19 record
Does UK government COVID-19 support come with strings attached?
Will the government impose restrictions on the activities of companies which have accessed the UK government's COVID-19 support mechanisms –...
International guide | Navigating government COVID-19 support measures
Although governments are beginning tentatively to ease lockdown restrictions, for many, it will take some time before trading returns to...
CLBILS gets larger: Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme cap to increase
The Treasury is reportedly considering increasing the cap on CLBILS from loans of £50m to £200m.
Pushing the envelope: practical tips for executing documents using DocuSign
Electronic signature platforms have become an invaluable and trusted way to execute documents remotely; in this article we set out...
Coronavirus | Protecting your UK business: an overview
As the UK government begins to lift restrictions, for many there will be a shift in the operational, financial and...
Business interruption loan schemes and Covid-19: a real estate finance perspective
What can the government's emergency loan schemes offer the real estate finance market?
Housing market reopens in England with strict Covid-19 social distancing conditions
As the residential property market emerges from lockdown and resumes activity in England, businesses will need to tread carefully to...
Government guidance on responsible contractual behaviour
Overview and analysis of the new guidance from The Cabinet Office and the Infrastructure and Projects Authority
To agility and beyond: 'work from home' reprise highlights the need for a change in employer practices
The government response to Covid-19 raises the possibility that homeworking and the opening and closing of workspaces will be a...
Extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: Welcome news for employers but details awaited
The government has announced that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will now be extended until the end of October...
What can businesses learn from understanding how the lockdown regulations are put together?
In this article, Osborne Clarke's John Cleverly – a former government lawyer and a member of our Regulatory team –...
Latest case of force majeure offers lessons for businesses affected by COVID-19
On 24 April 2020, the English High Court issued a new decision concerning force majeure, which will be instructive as...
UK's post-Brexit hopes for international disputes face setback
Plans to use two international regimes – the Hague and the Lugano conventions – to maintain the UK's status as...
Business Continuity in a Crisis: practical steps and legal guidance
As we settle into the business environment created by COVID-19, it is crucial that companies dedicate their efforts to business...
Pensions developments tracker
This tracker is a summary of the legal and regulatory developments arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic which will be...
Government opens consultation on relaxing Capacity Market requirements in response to COVID-19
On 24 April, the government launched a consultation seeking views on how it could relax certain requirements of the Capacity...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | The latest on the UK government's funding schemes for business
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing, our newsletter on business law issues in these sombre times.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme | HMRC portal open and further guidance published
Broadcasters and Covid-19: Europe's broadcast regulators tackle disruption and uncertainty
The Covid-19 crisis has had a huge impact on the broadcast industry, disrupting recent trends and shaping regulatory guidance and...
Tax compliance and Covid-19: HMRC takes new approach to investigations and disputes
Amid a range of actions to help businesses through the coronavirus emergency, HMRC's new policy on tax compliance raises practical...
Staffing and the Covid-19 crisis: further details of the CJRS published
What do HM Treasury directions mean for staffing and umbrella companies hoping to use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme?
Pensions developments tracker
This tracker is a summary of the legal and regulatory developments arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic which will be...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | The EU's exit strategy for business
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing, our newsletter on business law issues in these sombre times.
European competition law and Covid-19: exceptional rules for business cooperation
Antitrust rules have been eased temporarily by the European Commission to allow closer business cooperation – especially for the health...
Investors visas and coronavirus: what you need to know
While stock markets around the world face turbulent times, and major currencies drop in value, it is important that anyone...
Dispute Resolution and COVID-19 | Resolving commercial disputes through remote mediation
Remote mediation will come into its own in the coming months as businesses grapple with disruption in the court system...
State aid | Part III – European Commission amends Temporary Framework to include aid for Life Sciences sector
Life sciences businesses working on Covid-19 related products may be able to benefit from government funding for a range of...
COVID-19 | Lockdown and 'walk away' clauses: Is Covid-19 a MAC event under English law?
As the UK economy contends with the coronavirus crisis, affected businesses will want to know when and whether conditions are...
Diversifying into Covid-19 protection products : relaxation of the regulatory regime
In light of the impact of Covid-19 on businesses and the critical need for additional supplies for frontline staff and...
Can a company director or secretary or LLP member be furloughed?
The UK government's guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was updated on 4 April 2020 to clarify how it...
Furloughing staff during the Covid-19 crisis: government update for employers
The latest guidance on the government's scheme for businesses to retain employees and protect workforces takes steps to recognise that...
Job Retention Scheme: further guidance issued for suppliers of temps
HMRC issued further guidance on the Job Retention Scheme (JRS) on Saturday 4 April 2020. Some but not all areas...
German business and the coronavirus: How companies can secure liquidity and other FAQs.
With many German companies facing a substantial decline in revenues and potential insolvency as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak...
New FCA lending guidance offers temporary financial relief for customers
As Covid-19 bites on economic activity in the UK, consumer credit firms are now expected to take steps to help...
Coronavirus Legal Briefing | What we're seeing
Welcome to Osborne Clarke's Coronavirus Legal Briefing, our newsletter on business law issues in these sombre times.
Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme 2.0: "The Overhaul"
Amid concerns that SMEs were being denied access to the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and that a 'squeezed middle'...
COVID-19: Potential impact on Indian employers in major commercial hubs - Central lockdown imposed
Originally published by our relationship firm BTG Legal , the legal adviser to Osborne Clarke’s clients in India, this PDF...
Right to Work update: checks in the time of coronavirus
The Home Office has published new guidance (30 March 2020) on how employers may conduct Right to Work checks given...
Food deliveries: Covid-19 and what to consider when switching to a 'to-the-door' service
Amid the mandatory closure of bars, restaurants, pubs and others, UK food and drink businesses converting to delivery services need...
How is COVID-19 impacting the planning system, and what are the risks for developers?
Local planning authorities have been urged to be flexible in light of the current crisis, but with many issues outside...
Coronavirus A guide for your business
COVID-19 – and the measures governments have implemented to slow the spread of the virus – represent an unprecedented challenge...
Q&A | Employment law issues and practical considerations during the COVID-19 crisis
COVID-19 is creating new challenges for employers - and employment law.
Job retention: COVID-19 emergency guidance and five actions for employers
In light of more guidance on the government's scheme to help retain UK jobs, employers must assess how to take...
JRS and SSEP: what they mean for workforces
What do the COVID-19 emergency measures Job Retention Scheme and Statutory Self-Employed Pay mean for users and suppliers of contractors...
Electronic signatures: COVID-19 and 'business as (un)usual'
As the impact of Covid-19 prompts businesses to rethink and adapt the ways they work, it is more important than...
Special Measures under Companies Act, 2013 and Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008 proposed by Ministry of Corporate Affairs & SEBI for COVID-19
Originally published by our relationship firm BTG Legal , the legal adviser to Osborne Clarke’s clients in India, this PDF...
Competition law in times of crisis: Can you get a free pass?
COVID-19 has affected our world in unprecedented ways. Hardly any industry is spared from the serious economic consequences. Though some...
COVID-19: Potential impact on employers in India's major commercial hubs
Originally published by our relationship firm BTG Legal , the legal adviser to Osborne Clarke’s clients in India, this PDF...
UK government to ban evictions of commercial tenants
With 25 March 2020 being a rent quarter day, government intervention to prevent evictions will be welcomed by commercial tenants...
Right to Work | Employers and checks in the time of coronavirus
Many clients have contacted us seeking advice on how they remain compliant with the law regarding Right to Work (RTW)...
What effects does the coronavirus have on civil proceedings in Germany?
The coronavirus / COVID 19 is currently not only bringing public life almost to a halt, but also has a...
Will the job retention scheme be available for agency workers? How we will support staffing, consultancies and other workforce solutions businesses on this and other issues
Osborne Clarke is well known for having many clients and contacts in the staffing, consultancy and recruitment sector and we...
Proposed measures by India's Ministry of Corporate Affairs & SEBI for COVID-19
Originally published by our relationship firm BTG Legal , the legal adviser to Osborne Clarke’s clients in India, this PDF...
State aid | How can governments support businesses in the midst of the coronavirus crisis? Part II – European Commission Temporary Framework
As the coronavirus causes the risk of significant economic losses for companies and for citizens across the Union, the European...
UK COVID-19 Corporate Financing Facility: how does it work and which companies are eligible?
Initial details of the government's much-publicised support package has given rise to concerns that a large chunk of UK PLC...
Listed company AGMs: the COVID-19 factor
March to May in any year is typically the period during which listed companies with financial years ending on 31...
Students and accommodation providers braced for coronavirus disruption
The anticipated spread of coronavirus across educational institutions, cancellation of exams and temporary closures of universities is set to cause...
Coronavirus | Preserving your legal position in adversity
State aid | How can governments support businesses in the midst of the coronavirus crisis?
As the coronavirus causes significant economic losses for companies and for the citizens across the Union, affected businesses are asking...
Corporate transactions: the impact of COVID-19 internationally
With coronavirus now officially categorised by the World Health Organization as a pandemic, businesses will be renewing their focus on...
Will coronavirus be a force majeure event? It depends on your governing law
Where coronavirus causes business disruption, from fulfilment of deliveries to cancellation of events, a common question is whether commercial parties...
Budget 2020: employers to benefit from £12 billion plan to firefight coronavirus
Chancellor Rishi Sunak today (11 March 2020) delivered in his first Budget a coronavirus battle plan that promises to keep...
International employers: five considerations amid the Covid-19 emergency
Employers faced with coping with the coronavirus (Covid 19) outbreak need to put in place measures to protect, as far...
Preliminary remarks on the Italian Government's urgent provisions for COVID-19
Osborne Clarke has prepared a report to help clients dealing with the various legal issues arising from the DPCM 8...
Coronavirus | A guide for your business
The coronavirus represents a unique challenge for businesses playing their part in looking after staff and customers, while continuing to...
Corporate tax residency: potential implications of COVID-19
Coronavirus-related travel restrictions may cause problems for certain non-UK companies if non-UK-resident directors cannot physically attend UK board meetings.
Coronavirus and employer liability | the limits in France
The coronavirus (Covid-19) epidemic that is affecting many countries requires every employer to take the necessary measures to protect its...
Coronavirus | Update on the impact for UK immigration
As the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread and the UK steps up its readiness, businesses need to be aware of...
Coronavirus set to stress corporate finance arrangements
With market pressures likely to lead to many businesses triggering events of default and material adverse change clauses, it is...
Coronavirus in commercial property: what action should you take?
The effect of coronavirus has hit the real estate market, lowering stock market values, postponing MIPIM and causing concern across...
Coronavirus | Good practice for personal data processing in France
What is best practice when a company processes personal data for the protection of its employees against Coronavirus?
Coronavirus: the provision of temporary staff during an epidemic
Businesses and employer organisations will need to keep going as best they can during the more disruptive period of any...
How will coronavirus impact corporate transactions and reporting?
As the situation in the UK and around the world evolves rapidly, many businesses will be focussed on the immediate...
Coronavirus | An update for UK employers as ACAS issues workplace guidance
The risk in the UK of coronavirus (COVID-19) has moved from low to moderate, with 35 cases now confirmed within...
Coronavirus: force majeure, supply chains and contractual performance
The coronavirus is having a substantial economic impact, disrupting production, supply chains and travel. Businesses need to consider the legal...
The Coronavirus: what do employers need to know and do?
The Coronavirus continues to dominate headlines around the globe. On 30 January 2020, the World Health Organisation declared that the...