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Arbitration Bill [Lords] 2025-02-11
11 February 2025
Lead MP
Nicholas Dakin
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
DefenceEconomy
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
Nicholas Dakin raised concerns about arbitration bill [lords] 2025-02-11 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice outlined the purpose of the Arbitration Bill, explaining that it aims to reform arbitration law by simplifying the determination of governing laws, enhancing trust in arbitrations through clearer rules on jurisdiction and disclosure, and ensuring more efficient processes. He mentioned that clauses cover aspects such as the law applicable to arbitration agreements (Clause 1), the arbitral tribunal's duties (Clauses 2-4), jurisdiction issues (Clauses 5-6), procedural efficiencies (Clauses 7-9), court powers in relation to awards (Clauses 10-12), High Court appeals (Clause 13), miscellaneous amendments (Clauses 14-15), and administrative provisions including territorial extent (Clause 16) and commencement (Clause 17).
Chris Vince
Lab/Co-op
Harlow
Chris Vince inquired about the engagement with the legal sector regarding the Bill. He received confirmation from Sir Nicholas Dakin that there had been extensive consultations, and feedback from stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive.
Eastbourne
Supports the Bill for modernising arbitration framework. Welcomes changes to clause 1 for clarity and effectiveness, and amendments to clause 13 for aligning with case law.
Minister supporting the Bill, appreciating contributions from both sides of the House. Addresses concerns about corruption, third-party funding issues, and mandates mediation as part of dispute resolution efforts.
Minister
Not specified
The Minister thanked the Law Commission and various officials for their work on the Arbitration Bill. He highlighted the importance of modernising arbitral law to support economic growth, noting that the UK has been a chosen location for many international disputes since 1996. The Minister commended the Bill's contributions to arbitration and emphasised its role in sustaining the UK’s status as a leading centre for business and legal expertise.
Dr Mullan echoed the Minister’s gratitude towards Lord Bellamy, the Law Commission, and others involved. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of Members in the national interest and praised the arbitration sector's contribution to the UK economy through its world-leading status and reliability.
The Liberal Democrats welcomed the Arbitration Bill for modernising arbitration processes, noting that it can streamline complex procedures and reduce delays. With over 5,000 arbitrations a year in England and Wales worth about £2.5 billion annually to the economy, the Bill helps secure quicker dispute resolutions. Babarinde also paid tribute to legal professionals and firms contributing to alternative dispute resolution methods.
Government Response
The Government Minister provided detailed explanations on the purpose and implications of each clause in the Bill. He highlighted that the reforms aim to simplify arbitration processes, enhance transparency through disclosure requirements, streamline court applications related to jurisdiction, prevent re-hearings, clarify time limits for challenges, ensure consistency in High Court appeals provisions, and correct drafting errors. Additionally, he emphasised extensive engagement with stakeholders and legal sectors. Responds to points raised during Committee debate. Acknowledges anti-corruption initiatives in arbitration sector, awaits Civil Justice Council review on litigation funding before legislating further, and supports mandated mediation for dispute resolution. The Minister highlighted the importance of the Arbitration Bill in modernising arbitral law, emphasising its contributions to economic growth. He thanked various stakeholders including officials and experts for their work.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
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