UK Knowledge Collection | Reform of CMA's processes, energy performance in buildings, and business immigration
Published on 6th February 2026
Welcome to this week's Knowledge Collection
The UK government is consulting on significant reforms to the Competition and Markets Authority's competition processes. These include reducing its discretion in merger investigations and proposals to speed up regulatory intervention. The regulator could also be granted sweeping new algorithm investigation powers, particularly those concerning price-setting. Our Insight considers the proposed reforms and their likely impact.
Changes to the energy performance of buildings regime in the residential sector pose compliance challenges for landlords. Our Insight looks at the new obligations and the transitional measures proposed to ease the process, and at the direction of travel for the commercial sector.
Next week, in our Bristol office, our business immigration team are hosting a seminar on the latest changes to immigration law and the implications for businesses. The workshop will include salary thresholds, sponsor duties, right to work checks, visa costs and timelines, eVisas and audit readiness.
Recent Insights
Staffing agencies, MSPs and end users look for answers as UK 'umbrella' reforms approach in April
The new umbrella legislation comes into force on 6 April. Our Insight considers areas of concern for staffing agencies, managed service providers and end users, including over liability, compliance, historic risk and market alternatives.
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UK government consults on major reforms to competition processes
The proposals include changes to market reviews and remedies, the tests for merger investigations, timescales for merger remedies and the abolition of Phase II merger panels. The consultation runs until 31 March.
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Government reforms Energy Performance of Buildings regime and raises minimum energy efficiency standards in homes in England and Wales
Changes to improve EPCs and tighten minimum energy efficiency standards for the private rented sector will have significant implications for property owners, while clarity for the commercial sector is still awaited.
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Can assignees adjudicate under a construction contract? English court confirms position
The Technology and Construction Court has confirmed that an assignee can commence adjudication under a construction contract when the contract is silent.
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Smart Power | UK renewables liability risk, investments and grid connectivity
Our update for asset managers and developers in the green energy sector considers guards against liability risk on renewables projects, implications of the grid upgrade programme and tactics for helping investments in the renewable sector grow.
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Events
Navigating UK immigration changes: practical planning for employers, sponsor strategy, compliance and cost
10 February | Halo, Bristol | 09:15-11:00
A practical session on the latest rule changes and what they mean for hiring, retention and compliance.
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Life Sciences Academy | Navigating US bio-security rules: the Biosecure Act and its impact on global biotech and pharma
12 February | 16:00-17:00
The proposed Biosecure Act and related regulations could affect how biotech and pharma companies source, partner and invest across borders. This webinar explores the changes, who is affected, and how EU and UK companies with US touchpoints should prepare.
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Navigating the changes under the Procurement Act: one year on
24 February | 09:30-10:45
On the anniversary of the Act coming into force, our experts will discuss issues that have arisen for suppliers and contracting authorities, including exclusion and debarment requirements, prompt payment terms, exemptions, and conflicts of interest.
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Communications Review 2026
11 March | One London Wall | 15:00-17:45
This year's review will focus on how telecoms providers can future‑proof their networks and services amid rapid technological and regulatory change, with practical insights from industry speakers and our specialist telecoms team.
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