Key facts
- New legislation to restrict non-compete clauses is expected in early 2027.
- A consultation on whistleblowing protections closes on January 8, 2027.
- The government is considering extending whistleblowing protections to a wider range of individuals.
The UK government plans to introduce new legislation to restrict the use of non-compete clauses in employment contracts, with new rules expected in early 2027. Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated on October 9, 2026, that the government intends to address concerns that these clauses act as a barrier to hiring for start-ups and undermine economic growth. This follows a November 2025 working paper from the previous Labour government that sought views on potential reforms. Additionally, the government launched a consultation on October 12, 2026, regarding reforms to whistleblowing protections, which closes on January 8, 2027. The consultation also explores extending these protections to a wider range of individuals and potentially introducing a statutory duty for employers to establish whistleblowing procedures.