Public matters - February 2023

Biodiversity Net Gain — Government publishes consultation response

Biodiversity Net Gain is a concept that aims to leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than it was in beforehand.

This concept will be enshrined in law when parts of the Environment Act 2021 come into force (currently anticipated for November 2023), which will compel most developments to deliver at least 10% biodiversity net gain and secure habitat enhancement for 30 years.

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Government publishes its proposals for expanding the scope of the Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018

The Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018 (NIS Regulations) are the main legislative vehicle for promoting the security of networks and underpinning the UK’s essential and digital services. Read more to understand more of who else will fall under the scope, implications, and the future.

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Government introduces first streamlined subsidy schemes under new regime

With the official launch of the Subsidy Control Act 2022, the Government also launched the first three streamlined routes to be made under s10(4) of the Act (referred to as Streamlined Subsidy Schemes in the Act itself). In this article we explore what these Streamlined Routes are and why they may be beneficial to public authorities looking to award subsidies.

Procurement Bill debarment regime and ECHR issues

On 25 January 2023, the Government published a policy paper addressing the debarment regime under the Procurement Bill and the issues that arise under the European Convention on Human Rights as a result. In this article we provide a high-level summary of the key points and reasoning.

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How the Environment Act affects existing contracts

In this article, originally published by Let’s Recycle Michael Mousdale discusses how new duties under the Environment Act will affect existing contracts for collection, recycling, and the disposal of waste.

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What are freeports and what benefits could they offer?

Eight new English Freeport locations were announced by the Government in the March 2021 budget. This article explores what Freeports are, what benefits they bring and why they are regarded as playing a key role in the Government’s levelling up agenda.

Consultation launched on minimum ambulance service levels during strike action

The Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill is currently making its way through parliament, but in anticipation of it becoming law, the Department of Health and Social Care has launched a consultation seeking views on minimum ambulance service levels during a strike.

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‘Awaab’s Law’- a significant amendment to the Social Housing Regulation Bill

Following the recent death of Awaab Ishak, the Government has proposed action to ensure no further deaths occur due to damp or mould growth within social housing properties. 

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