UK Knowledge Collection | Children's online safety, EU digital policy and AIM reforms

The UK government recently announced age restrictions for online services, including a social media ban for under-16s, and the EU and G7 are also considering introducing measures to protect children from online harms. Our latest Regulatory Outlook looks at these developments in digital regulation, and at how they intertwine with data regulation. Next week, our Data Forum in Bristol will also consider the data law implications for these children's online safety and age assurance measures.

Significant reform to the EU's digital policy is expected in 2027, as the European Commission has published a package of measures to address its reliance on non-EU providers of digital products, services and infrastructure. It comprises four initiatives: the Chips Act 2.0, the Cloud and AI Development Act, the Open Source Strategy and the Digitalisation and AI in Energy Roadmap. Our Insight considers the proposals and their impact on the commercial technology sector, particularly in relation to procurement, competition and market access.

The London Stock Exchange has proposed amendments to the AIM rules for companies and for nominated advisers. The reforms are intended to make AIM more attractive to innovative and growing companies, including by reducing regulatory burdens on admission and supporting AIM companies undertaking transactions and fundraisings. Our Corporate Focus looks at this and other recent legal and regulatory developments.

Recent Insights

EU's technological sovereignty package sets new direction for the digital economy

The European Commission's proposals are focused on reducing dependencies by building up the EU's own capacity and strengthening control over its critical technologies and digital infrastructure.
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Regulatory Outlook

This month's edition includes developments in online safety measures for children, new data protection complaints requirements now in force, and government plans to introduce mandatory deforestation due diligence for GB supply chains.
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Corporate Focus

A round-up of corporate law and regulation for large listed and unlisted corporate groups in the UK and the rest of Europe, including new rules to make it easier for foreign companies to relocate to the UK and AIM reforms.
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UK government proposes faster route for straightforward pension transfers

A consultation is under way until 21 July on draft regulations reforming pension transfer conditions, including a "reputable scheme" pathway for low-risk transfers and revised scam-protection flags.
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Final dates for payment in UK construction contracts: court confirms strict application of statutory requirements

A recent judgment highlights the dangers of pegging final dates for payment to variable events.
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Events

Annual Data Forum

7 July | Halo, Bristol | 13:00-18:30
Our annual Data Forum returns to our Bristol office, including updates on automated decision-making, DSARs, cyber security obligations, regulators' enforcement priorities in the EU and UK, and developments in protecting children online.
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Renters' Rights Act: staying ahead in a changing landscape

9 July | Webinar | 09:30-10:30
A practical assessment of what is in force and what is to come as the Act is implemented, relevant for private landlords of residential property, purpose-built student accommodation operators or portfolio investors. The session includes section 13 rent reviews, possession claims, occupation agreements in Wales, and actions to prioritise.
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NIS2 in the Life Sciences and Healthcare sector

15 July | Webinar | 10:00-11:00
An overview of the affected companies, requirements, and best practices for structuring NIS2 implementation projects on an international level.
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