Legislation Published February 2025

Legislation Tracker is your source for clear, concise explanations of Acts of Parliament and Statutory Instruments introduced in the United Kingdom.

We break down the technical legal jargon of each piece of legislation, explaining in plain language what it means and its potential impact.

Summary

  • 21st Feb 25 Designated areas in England and Wales were established for local retention of non-domestic rates, calculation rules were instituted for non-domestic rating income and baseline amounts, and the Non-Domestic Rating (Designated Areas etc) Regulations 2017 were amended. View
  • 21st Feb 25 The 2025 regulations amended the 2014 Electricity Capacity Regulations, introducing new capacity agreement durations, clarifying eligibility criteria, and updating administrative procedures related to the Capacity Market. View
  • 21st Feb 25 The Order of Council approved amendments to veterinary registration fees, increasing them by approximately 4% and replacing Part 4 of the 2014 Regulations. View
  • 19th Feb 25 The Armed Forces (Court Martial) (Amendment) Rules 2025 amended the 2009 rules to specify minimum ranks for court martial presidents based on the defendant's rank. View
  • 18th Feb 25 The 2025 regulations amended the 2003 Income and Corporation Taxes (Electronic Communications) Regulations by removing an obsolete definition, expanding their scope to cover Finance Act 2021 penalties, and clarifying electronic information delivery conditions. View
  • 17th Feb 25 The Media Act 2024 (Commencement No. 2 and Transitional and Saving Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 revoked a saving provision concerning community and small-scale radio, aligning legislation with the Community Radio Order 2025. View
  • 17th Feb 25 Updated procurement thresholds, amended international obligations, modified primary and secondary legislation, and established transitional provisions for the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023. View
  • 14th Feb 25 The 2025 Order extended the Universal Credit In-Work Pilot Scheme for twelve months, continuing a program to assess the effect of work-related requirements on employed claimants. View
  • 14th Feb 25 * This document granted development consent for and authorized the construction, operation, and maintenance of a new liquid bulk import terminal at Immingham Port, along with associated developments and works; incorporated provisions from several existing acts; outlined land acquisition and possession procedures in tandem with compensation and protective provisions for concerned parties; included stipulations for environmental management and marine compliance; specified operational and decommissioning actions. View
  • 14th Feb 25 BIMM University Limited was authorized to grant taught awards for a fixed term, and the Office for Students conducted relevant consultations to inform the decision. View
  • 14th Feb 25 The Community Radio Order 2025 consolidated existing legislation, redefined community radio services, amended the Broadcasting Act 1990 and the Communications Act 2003, revoked prior orders, and established transitional provisions for existing licenses. View
  • 14th Feb 25 Established new decarbonisation readiness requirements for power stations in England through mandatory technical assessments and feasibility studies for environmental permits. View
  • 14th Feb 25 The Order established 20 new electoral wards in Walsall, abolished existing wards, and set the schedule for future council elections. View
  • 13th Feb 25 The 2025 Order restated and varied the Elections (Policy Development Grants Scheme) Order 2006, allocating £2 million annually to eligible political parties based on regional electorate proportions and party representation. View
  • 13th Feb 25 Updated student financial support regulations, modified fee structures, and expanded eligibility criteria for the 2025/26 academic year in England. View
  • 13th Feb 25 This order implemented boundary changes for county electoral divisions and borough wards in Maidstone, England, based on recommendations from Maidstone Borough Council, making these changes effective for elections from 2025 and 2028. View
  • 13th Feb 25 The Shropshire (Electoral Changes) Order 2025 effected alterations to county electoral division boundaries based on recommendations from Shropshire Council, aligning with parish boundary changes under the Shropshire (Reorganisation of Community Governance) Order 2025. View
  • 13th Feb 25 The Order established 24 new electoral wards for Canterbury, abolished existing wards, and specified the number of councillors per ward, based on a Local Government Boundary Commission for England recommendation. View
  • 13th Feb 25 The Separation of Waste (England) Regulations 2025 exempted the combined collection of certain recyclable waste streams and exempted micro-firms from specific waste collection requirements. View
  • 12th Feb 25 The 2025 Airports Slot Allocation Regulations amended UK airport slot allocation rules, increasing the threshold for 'new entrant' airlines and creating provisions for handling public health emergency situations. View
  • 12th Feb 25 The 2025 Order amended the 2006 Naval, Military and Air Forces (Disablement and Death) Service Pensions Order, updating payment rates and eligibility criteria for various benefits. View
  • 12th Feb 25 Split the 2026-2030 allocation period, modified free allocation processes, and enhanced transparency requirements for the UK Emissions Trading Scheme. View
  • 12th Feb 25 The 2025 Order postponed local council elections for nine English councils from 2025 to 2026, adjusted councillor terms, and modified casual vacancy procedures. View
  • 11th Feb 25 The 2025 regulations revoked the emergency restrictions on unmanned aircraft flights near Burghfield. View
  • 11th Feb 25 The 2025 Order amended the 2024 Sheringham Shoal and Dudgeon Extensions Offshore Wind Farm Order, updating several specifications and documentation requirements. View
  • 11th Feb 25 The 2025 regulations amended Schedule 4A of the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001, requiring employers to report the workplace postcode of employees benefiting from zero-rate National Insurance contributions in freeports and investment zones. View
  • 11th Feb 25 The regulations amended the Merchant Shipping (Safety of Navigation) Regulations 2020 and the Merchant Shipping (Fees) Regulations 2018 to implement international safety standards for ship navigation, creating exemptions for certain vessel types. View
  • 11th Feb 25 The 2025 order corrected errors and omissions in the Associated British Ports (Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal) Development Consent Order 2024. View
  • 10th Feb 25 The regulations amended the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations 1999 to extend driving licence validity for Ukrainian nationals under specific visa schemes based on application dates and further leave applications. View
  • 10th Feb 25 The 2025 regulations amended the 2009 RTM Companies (Model Articles) Regulations, clarifying the definition of 'lease' and capping landlord voting power in RTM companies. View
  • 10th Feb 25 The 2025 regulations amended the 2012 Early Years Foundation Stage (Welfare Requirements) Regulations to reflect a revised Qualifications Document related to early years provider training and qualifications. View
  • 10th Feb 25 Specific sections of the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 concerning the right to manage were brought into force. View
  • 10th Feb 25 Abolished existing electoral wards in Thurrock and established 20 new wards with revised councilor allocations, effective from the 2025 local elections. View
  • 10th Feb 25 Increased TV license fees and adjusted payment schemes across UK territories, raising the standard color TV license to £174.50 and black and white license to £58.50 from April 2025. View
  • 10th Feb 25 Transferred environmental assessment and planning data powers from UK Secretary of State to Scottish Ministers for renewable energy projects, while maintaining concurrent authority. View
  • 7th Feb 25 The Excise Duties (Miscellaneous Amendments and Revocations) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 amended the 2024 regulations by omitting regulation 10. View
  • 7th Feb 25 Established a new combined county authority for Greater Lincolnshire with an elected mayor and devolved powers over transport, housing, economic development, and planning. View
  • 7th Feb 25 Established the Lancashire Combined County Authority as a statutory body with powers over transport, housing, regeneration and economic development across Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen. View
  • 6th Feb 25 The regulations transferred employment of specified Ministry of Defence Police personnel to the Civil Nuclear Police Authority, safeguarding their employment rights and pension provisions. View
  • 6th Feb 25 - Amended the Valuation Tribunal for England (Membership and Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2009 to raise the mandatory retirement age for members from 72 to 75. View
  • 6th Feb 25 The Carriage by Air (Revision of Limits of Liability under the Montreal Convention) Order 2025 updated the liability limits for air carriers under the Montreal Convention in line with ICAO's revised figures. View
  • 6th Feb 25 The Order appointed Sir Ian Bauckham as Chief Regulator of Qualifications and Examinations, effective February 6th, 2025. View
  • 6th Feb 25 The Order designated the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands as a superior court for purposes of the Judicial Committee Amendment Act 1895. View
  • 6th Feb 25 The Order designated St Mary's University, Twickenham as an exempt charity, limiting the Charity Commission's oversight. View
  • 6th Feb 25 Established the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority with powers over transport, housing, regeneration, and economic development, effective February 5th, 2025. View
  • 6th Feb 25 Reformed the UK Emissions Trading Scheme's rules on installation closures, free allocation adjustments, and decarbonization provisions through amendments to primary and delegated legislation. View
  • 6th Feb 25 Established the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority as a statutory body with mayoral governance, transport powers, and economic development functions covering Kingston upon Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire. View
  • 5th Feb 25 Designated three areas in the East Midlands as special tax sites to enhance capital allowances and provide stamp duty land tax relief, effective February 26, 2025. View
  • 5th Feb 25 Restrictions were placed on unmanned aircraft flights near Donnington Park during the 2025 Download Festival to ensure public safety. View
  • 4th Feb 25 The 2025 rules amended the 2022 Payment and Electronic Money Institution Insolvency (Scotland) Rules to correct drafting errors and improve the content of administrator notices. View
  • 4th Feb 25 A temporary traffic prohibition order was implemented on sections of the M6 Toll Motorway to facilitate roadworks, with exemptions for emergency services and related vehicles. View
  • 4th Feb 25 A temporary flight restriction was imposed near Stonehenge during the Summer Solstice of 2025 to ensure public safety during a large gathering. View
  • 4th Feb 25 Amended official controls regulations to modernize UK import procedures, expand enforcement options, and update technical requirements for animal, food, and plant imports. View

The Non-Domestic Rating (Designated Areas) Regulations 2025

Published: Fri 21st Feb 25

The Non-Domestic Rating (Designated Areas) Regulations 2025 designate specific areas in England and Wales to retain a portion of their non-domestic rating income.

The regulations detail how to calculate this income and establish a baseline amount to determine the portion retained.

These calculations consider factors such as small and standard business rate multipliers and the aggregate rateable values of properties within designated areas.

The regulations also amend existing legislation to extend the designation of the Heart of the South West–Huntspill Energy Park designated area and specify the designation period (24-25 years) for all designated areas.

The Electricity Capacity (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Fri 21st Feb 25

The Electricity Capacity (Amendment) Regulations 2025 amend the 2014 Electricity Capacity Regulations to improve the UK's Capacity Market.

Key changes include introducing 9-year capacity agreements for certain low-carbon generating units, clarifying eligibility criteria, and simplifying some administrative procedures.

These amendments seek to enhance the market's efficiency, promote low-carbon investment, and improve regulatory clarity.

Several subsections clarify existing ambiguities and align the regulations with ongoing updates to the Capacity Market Rules.

The Veterinary Surgeons and Veterinary Practitioners (Registration) (Amendment) Regulations Order of Council 2025

This Order of Council approves amendments to the Veterinary Surgeons and Veterinary Practitioners (Registration) Regulations 2014, increasing registration and retention fees by approximately 4%, effective April 1st, 2025.

The amendments, made by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, are detailed in the Schedule and replace Part 4 of the 2014 Regulations.

The previous regulations are revoked.

The Armed Forces (Court Martial) (Amendment) Rules 2025

Published: Wed 19th Feb 25

These rules amend the Armed Forces (Court Martial) Rules 2009, specifying the required rank of the president of a court martial board relative to the defendant's rank.

If the defendant is an officer of rank OF-6 or above, the president must also be OF-6 or above.

For defendants of rank OF-5 or below, the president must hold a superior rank.

The rules define OF-5 and OF-6 ranks, clarifying the president's required rank according to the defendant's, and further ensuring fairness and maintaining chain of command within the court martial system.

The changes came into effect on February 20, 2025, and apply to England and Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, and British overseas territories (excluding Gibraltar).

The Income and Corporation Taxes (Electronic Communications) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

The Income and Corporation Taxes (Electronic Communications) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective March 11, 2025, amend the 2003 Regulations.

Key changes include removing an outdated definition, broadening the regulations to encompass penalties under the Finance Act 2021, and adding new provisions specifying conditions for valid electronic information delivery.

These amendments aim to improve efficiency, clarify procedures, and modernize tax communication processes.

The Media Act 2024 (Commencement No. 2 and Transitional and Saving Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

These regulations amend the Media Act 2024 (Commencement No. 2 and Transitional and Saving Provisions) Regulations 2024 by revoking a saving provision related to community and small-scale radio.

This action streamlines legislation and ensures consistency with the Community Radio Order 2025, which addresses the relevant amendments made by the Media Act 2024.

The regulations come into force on April 1st, 2025.

The Procurement Act 2023 (Consequential and Other Amendments) Regulations 2025

The Procurement Act 2023 (Consequential and Other Amendments) Regulations 2025 implements crucial updates to UK procurement law, including revised threshold amounts for contract values, amendments to international trade obligations, and comprehensive changes to primary and secondary legislation.

The regulations modernize procurement processes, strengthen security measures, and establish transitional provisions while ensuring alignment with international agreements.

The Universal Credit (Work-Related Requirements) In Work Pilot Scheme (Extension) Order 2025

The Universal Credit (Work-Related Requirements) In Work Pilot Scheme (Extension) Order 2025 extends an existing pilot program testing mandated work requirements for employed Universal Credit claimants.

The extension, effective February 19, 2025, covers England, Wales, and Scotland, and continues the scheme for another twelve months.

The order leverages existing legislation and claims to have a non-significant impact, foregoing a full impact assessment.

This decision allows for continued data collection and evaluation of policy effectiveness.

The Associated British Ports (Immingham Green Energy Terminal) Order 2025

This Order grants development consent and authorises the construction, operation, and maintenance of a multi-user marine terminal at Immingham Port for importing and exporting bulk liquids.

It incorporates relevant provisions of the Harbours, Docks, and Piers Clauses Act 1847, addresses street works, land acquisition (including compulsory purchase powers), and temporary land possession, outlining compensation procedures and protective measures for various stakeholders.

The order also includes stipulations for environmental management, decommissioning, and compliance with maritime regulations, along with detailed operational and general provisions.

The Power to Award Degrees etc. (BIMM University Limited) Order 2025

Published: Fri 14th Feb 25

The Power to Award Degrees etc. (BIMM University Limited) Order 2025 authorizes BIMM University Limited to grant taught awards, including sub-authorizing other institutions, for a fixed term from March 13, 2025, to March 12, 2027.

The Office for Students made this order after considering advice on the quality and standards of the university's higher education provision.

The order notes that no impact assessment was required because it doesn't affect businesses, civil society, or the public sector.

The Community Radio Order 2025

The Community Radio Order 2025, effective April 1, 2025, consolidates and amends existing legislation governing community radio in the UK. It defines community radio services, focusing on their non-commercial, community-beneficial nature and the obligations on licensees, such as promoting social gain and accountability to the served community.

The order modifies relevant sections of the Broadcasting Act 1990 and the Communications Act 2003, revokes previous related orders, and includes transitional provisions for existing licences.

The focus is on fostering participation from community members, and ensuring that services are provided primarily for social gain.

The Environmental Permitting (Electricity Generating Stations) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

The regulations establish new requirements for electricity generating stations in England to demonstrate their readiness for future decarbonisation through either carbon capture and storage (CCS) or hydrogen conversion.

Operators must submit detailed technical and economic feasibility assessments when applying for environmental permits, proving they can meet specific conditions for either CCS readiness or hydrogen conversion readiness.

The regulations replace existing Carbon Capture Readiness requirements and extend to both inland and territorial waters adjacent to England.

The Walsall (Electoral Changes) Order 2025

Published: Fri 14th Feb 25

The Walsall (Electoral Changes) Order 2025 implements recommendations from the Local Government Boundary Commission for England, abolishing existing wards in the borough of Walsall and establishing 20 new ones.

The order details the new ward names, boundaries (reference a provided map), and the number of councillors per ward (three).

It also establishes the election schedule, stipulating simultaneous elections in 2026, with subsequent elections staggered to return to the 'election by thirds' system.

The order's effective date is October 15th, 2025, for preliminary election-related procedures, with full implementation in 2026.

The Elections (Policy Development Grants Scheme) Order 2025

Published: Thu 13th Feb 25

The Elections (Policy Development Grants Scheme) Order 2025 revises the existing scheme for allocating policy development grants to UK political parties.

Effective March 6th, 2025, the order allocates £2 million annually, distributing funds among eligible parties based on a formula considering their representation in different UK regions’ electorates.

The Order replaces previous legislation relating to the same scheme and reflects the Electoral Commission’s recommendations, providing a foundation for transparent and equitable funding for policy development.

The Education (Student Fees, Awards and Support) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

The regulations modify multiple aspects of student financial support in England, updating payment rates and loan amounts for the 2025/26 academic year.

Key changes include introducing lower fees for foundation years, extending support to bereaved partners of Gurkha and Hong Kong military unit veterans, enhancing disabled student allowances, and revising overseas territory definitions.

The amendments affect various existing regulations including student support, postgraduate loans, and fee limit conditions.

The Maidstone (Electoral Changes) Order 2025

Published: Thu 13th Feb 25

The Maidstone (Electoral Changes) Order 2025 alters county electoral division and borough ward boundaries in Maidstone, England.

These changes, effective from 2025 and 2028 respectively, implement recommendations by Maidstone Borough Council, reflecting parish boundary adjustments made in 2023.

The Order ensures election procedures align with updated community governance structures.

The Shropshire (Electoral Changes) Order 2025

Published: Thu 13th Feb 25

The Shropshire (Electoral Changes) Order 2025 alters the boundary between two Shropshire county electoral divisions, namely Severn Valley and Sutton & Reabrook divisions.

This adjustment stems from recommendations made by Shropshire Council and approved by the Local Government Boundary Commission for England.

The changes, reflecting alterations made to parish boundaries, take effect for election proceedings after the Order's enactment and for all other purposes on the ordinary day of the 2025 councillor elections in England.

The Canterbury (Electoral Changes) Order 2025

Published: Thu 13th Feb 25

The Canterbury (Electoral Changes) Order 2025 alters Canterbury's electoral arrangements.

It abolishes existing wards and creates 24 new ones, defining their boundaries via a map and specifying the number of councillors for each.

The changes, based on recommendations from the Local Government Boundary Commission for England, take effect in October 2026 for preliminary election processes and in 2027 for other purposes, applying only to England despite extending to England and Wales.

The Separation of Waste (England) Regulations 2025

The Separation of Waste (England) Regulations 2025, effective March 31, 2025, establish exemptions to existing regulations regarding waste separation in England and Wales.

These exemptions permit the combined collection of certain recyclable waste streams (metal, glass, plastic) by English waste collection authorities.

Additionally, the regulations exempt micro-firms from certain waste collection requirements until March 31, 2027.

The regulations were drafted in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and following consultation with relevant stakeholders.

The Airports Slot Allocation (Alleviation of Usage Requirements etc.) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 12th Feb 25

These regulations amend Council Regulation (EEC) No 95/93 concerning airport slot allocation in the UK. Key changes include increasing the threshold for defining a 'new entrant' airline from five to seven slots and introducing a new provision for handling slot allocation adjustments during pandemics or similar public health emergencies.

The changes aim to improve fairness and resilience in the system while simplifying the regulatory framework.

The Naval, Military and Air Forces Etc. (Disablement and Death) Service Pensions (Amendment) Order 2025

The Naval, Military and Air Forces Etc. (Disablement and Death) Service Pensions (Amendment) Order 2025 amends the 2006 Order governing service pensions.

Key changes include updated rates for pensions, gratuities, and allowances for armed forces members disabled or killed in service before April 6, 2005.

The Order also modifies eligibility for mobility supplements, including those receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance, and simplifies the eligibility criteria.

The amendments take effect in March and April 2025, extending across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 2025

This Order implements significant changes to the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS), primarily splitting the 2026-2030 allocation period into two separate periods: a one-year 2026 allocation period and a four-year 2027-2030 allocation period.

It establishes new processes for free allocation of emissions allowances, modifies eligibility criteria for ultra-small emitters, enhances registry transparency requirements, and expands information sharing powers for climate change policy development.

The Local Authorities (Changes to Years of Ordinary Elections) (England) Order 2025

Published: Wed 12th Feb 25

This Order shifts the ordinary elections for councillors in nine specified English local authorities from 2025 to 2026.

It adjusts councillor retirement dates accordingly, modifies procedures for filling casual vacancies, and makes consequential amendments to other related electoral Orders.

The changes primarily impact the timing of local elections and the terms of office for elected councillors, with provisions to manage casual vacancies during the transition.

The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Burghfield) (Emergency) (Revocation) Regulations 2025

These regulations revoke the Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Burghfield) (Emergency) Regulations 2024, which imposed temporary restrictions on unmanned aircraft flights near Burghfield.

The Secretary of State determined that the emergency justifying these restrictions has ended, and the revocation is in the public interest.

The regulations came into force immediately upon signing on February 11th, 2025.

The Sheringham Shoal and Dudgeon Extensions Offshore Wind Farm (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Tue 11th Feb 25

This Order amends the 2024 Sheringham Shoal and Dudgeon Extensions Offshore Wind Farm Order, incorporating non-material changes.

These alterations include specifications for minimum air gaps between wind turbine blades and HAT, adjustments to documentation requirements listed in Schedule 18, and other numerical updates to various parameters within Schedule 2.

The amendments follow an application under paragraph 2 of Schedule 6 to the Planning Act 2008 and a review process adhering to the 2011 Regulations.

The Social Security (Contributions) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

These regulations modify the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001.

They mandate that employers claiming zero-rate secondary Class 1 National Insurance contributions for employees working in designated freeports or investment zones must include the employee's workplace postcode (or an HMRC-provided alternative code) in their Full Payment Submission.

This aims to improve data collection and ensure compliance with existing legislation regarding tax relief in these specific zones.

The Merchant Shipping (Safety of Navigation) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 11th Feb 25

The Merchant Shipping (Safety of Navigation) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 amend the 2020 regulations to implement aspects of the 1974 International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.

Key changes include altering requirements for navigational equipment on various ship types to align with international standards.

Specific exemptions were granted to certain classes of ships, and the fee schedule was updated accordingly.

The regulations improve safety at sea by harmonizing UK legislation with international requirements.

The Associated British Ports (Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal) Development Consent (Correction) Order 2025

The Associated British Ports (Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal) Development Consent (Correction) Order 2025 rectifies errors and omissions in the 2024 Development Consent Order.

Following requests from the applicant and an interested party, and in accordance with the Planning Act 2008, the Secretary of State made corrections detailed in a schedule.

The corrections encompass various articles and schedules of the original Order amending definitions, referencing, and documentation specifications.

The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 10th Feb 25

These regulations amend the 1999 Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations to extend driving privileges for Ukrainian nationals in Great Britain holding specific leave types under the Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Extension, and Ukraine Family Schemes.

The amendments specify different durations of driving permissions based on application dates and whether further leave extensions have been sought, ranging from one to four and a half years.

The regulations clarify definitions and provide multiple scenarios addressing different application timelines.

The RTM Companies (Model Articles) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 10th Feb 25

The RTM Companies (Model Articles) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 amend the 2009 Regulations governing right-to-manage (RTM) companies in England.

Key changes include defining 'lease' according to the 2002 Act, restricting landlord voting power to one-third of tenant votes, and requiring landlords to be freeholders to qualify for votes.

These amendments aim to balance voting rights within RTM companies and improve governance clarity.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (Welfare Requirements) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

These regulations amend the 2012 Early Years Foundation Stage (Welfare Requirements) Regulations to update the date referenced in regulation 3 to February 10, 2025.

This change is in response to a revised Qualifications Document outlining updated training and qualification requirements for early years providers.

The update facilitates the introduction of an experience-based route for early years practitioners to gain Level 3 status, impacting staff:child ratios.

The changes affect early years providers in England and Wales and are backed by the Childcare Act 2006.

The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 (Commencement No. 3) Regulations 2025

These regulations, effective March 3, 2025, implement several sections of the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 related to leaseholders' right to manage.

Specifically, they define non-residential limits on claims, detail cost allocation, ensure compliance with the 2002 Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act, prohibit initial High Court applications for tribunal matters, and restrict the recovery of certain costs.

The aim is to clarify, simplify, and streamline the right-to-manage process for leaseholders.

The Thurrock (Electoral Changes) Order 2025

The Thurrock (Electoral Changes) Order 2025 implements comprehensive changes to electoral arrangements in the borough of Thurrock following recommendations from the Local Government Boundary Commission for England.

The Order abolishes existing electoral wards and establishes 20 new wards with specified numbers of councillors for each, ranging from two to three members per ward.

These changes will take effect for elections from 2025 onwards, with new boundaries defined by geographical features and documented in official mapping.

The Communications (Television Licensing) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

The Communications (Television Licensing) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 implements changes to UK television license fees effective April 1, 2025.

The regulations increase the standard color TV license fee from £169.50 to £174.50 and the black and white license fee from £57.00 to £58.50.

Various installment payment schemes are adjusted accordingly, with updates to premium, budget, easy entry, and simple payment plans.

The regulations apply across the UK, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man, with certain provisions for specific territories.

The Scotland Act 1998 (Transfer of Functions to the Scottish Ministers etc.) Order 2025

The Order transfers specific environmental assessment and planning data functions from the UK Secretary of State to Scottish Ministers, granting them concurrent powers over renewable energy projects.

It enables Scottish Ministers to make regulations regarding environmental outcomes reports and planning data for generating stations in Scotland and the Scottish Renewable Energy Zone, while requiring consultation with the Secretary of State.

The Order extends existing devolved powers to include offshore renewable energy developments and maintains coordination between UK and Scottish authorities.

The Excise Duties (Miscellaneous Amendments and Revocations) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Fri 7th Feb 25

The Excise Duties (Miscellaneous Amendments and Revocations) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective February 28, 2025, correct a defect in the 2024 regulations by omitting regulation 10.

These regulations were made under the powers of the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 and don't involve substantive tax policy alterations, according to the explanatory note.

The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority Regulations 2025

The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority Regulations 2025 establish a new combined county authority for Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire, and North East Lincolnshire. The regulations create a directly elected mayoral position and grant significant powers over economic development, transport, housing, and planning.

The authority receives functions previously held by the Homes and Communities Agency, along with powers to establish development corporations, implement transport schemes, and coordinate strategic planning across the region.

The Lancashire Combined County Authority Regulations 2025

The Lancashire Combined County Authority Regulations 2025 establish a new combined county authority covering Lancashire, Blackpool, and Blackburn with Darwen.

The regulations grant the authority significant powers over transport, housing, regeneration, and economic development.

The authority will be governed by appointed council members with specific voting requirements for key decisions.

It receives powers to coordinate transport planning, deliver housing and regeneration projects, and conduct strategic economic assessments across the region.

The regulations also establish funding mechanisms and transitional arrangements for the new authority's operations.

The Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) (Transfer of Staff to the Civil Nuclear Police Authority) Regulations 2025

These regulations govern the transfer of specified Ministry of Defence Police employees to the Civil Nuclear Police Authority on April 1, 2025.

The regulations ensure employment protection, mirroring provisions in the 2006 Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (TUPE), covering contracts, rights, and liabilities.

They also address the transition of Ministry of Defence Police members into the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, and incorporate modifications regarding pension schemes.

The Valuation Tribunal for England (Membership and Transitional Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 6th Feb 25

These regulations, effective April 1st, 2025, amend the Valuation Tribunal for England (Membership and Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2009.

Specifically, they increase the mandatory retirement age for Tribunal members from 72 to 75 years old, extending to England and Wales.

The changes are based on powers granted by the Local Government Finance Act 1988 and are claimed to have minimal impact on the public, private, or voluntary sectors.

The Carriage by Air (Revision of Limits of Liability under the Montreal Convention) Order 2025

This Order, effective February 7th, 2025, updates the liability limits for air carriers under the Montreal Convention.

It adopts the revised limits certified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) following their five-yearly review process, replacing the 2021 limits.

The revised figures, expressed in Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), are detailed within the Order, and the Order applies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

The Chief Regulator of Qualifications and Examinations Order 2025

Published: Thu 6th Feb 25

The Chief Regulator of Qualifications and Examinations Order 2025 appoints Sir Ian Bauckham as the Chief Regulator of Qualifications and Examinations in England, effective February 6th, 2025.

This appointment is authorized by the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009 and applies specifically to England.

The Order clarifies the title and commencement date for this new role.

The Judicial Committee (Cayman Islands) Order 2025

The Judicial Committee (Cayman Islands) Order 2025, made on February 5th, 2025, and effective February 6th, 2025, designates the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands as a superior court under the Judicial Committee Amendment Act 1895.

This designation clarifies the eligibility of Cayman Islands judges to potentially sit on the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.

The Exempt Charities Order 2025

The Exempt Charities Order 2025, effective February 6th, 2025, designates St Mary's University, Twickenham as an exempt charity under the Charities Act 2011.

This exemption prevents registration with the Charity Commission and limits the Commission's powers, barring advisory roles at the charity's request and inquiries initiated by a principal regulator (in this case, the Office for Students).

The Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority Regulations 2025

The Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority Regulations 2025 establish a new combined authority covering Devon and Torbay, granting it significant powers over transport, housing, regeneration, and economic development.

The authority gains concurrent powers with existing councils in areas including highway management, public transport, and strategic planning, while becoming the primary authority for local transport planning.

The regulations ensure democratic accountability through a carefully structured voting system and require consent from constituent councils for key decisions, particularly those involving financial commitments or compulsory land acquisition.

The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2025

The Order amends the UK Emissions Trading Scheme to revise how installation closures are handled and their impact on free allocation of emissions allowances.

It introduces new definitions for operational cessation, mandatory notification requirements, and regulator powers to determine permanent closures.

The amendments also create special provisions for installations undertaking decarbonization projects and modify reporting requirements for installations receiving free allowances.

These changes aim to improve scheme administration while supporting industrial transition to lower-carbon operations.

The Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority Order 2025

The Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority Order 2025 establishes a new combined authority covering the areas of Kingston upon Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire, with an elected mayor taking office from May 2025.

The order grants significant powers over transport, housing, regeneration, and economic development, while establishing clear governance structures and funding mechanisms.

The combined authority will have the ability to exercise functions previously held by constituent councils and other public bodies, aimed at improving economic, social, and environmental wellbeing across the region.

The Designation of Special Tax Sites (East Midlands Investment Zone) Regulations 2025

These regulations, enacted under the Finance Act 2021, designate three areas in the East Midlands as 'special tax sites' to boost economic activity within the East Midlands Investment Zone.

This designation provides enhanced capital allowances for plant, machinery, structures, and buildings, along with stamp duty land tax relief, for qualifying companies and investments within these zones.

The designated sites are explicitly defined by maps, and the regulations took effect on February 26, 2025.

The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Download Festival, Leicestershire) Regulations 2025

These regulations temporarily restrict unmanned aircraft flights within a one nautical mile radius of Donnington Park, Leicestershire, from 0500 UTC on June 10th to 2200 UTC on June 16th, 2025, during the Download Festival.

The restrictions, implemented at the request of Leicestershire Police for public safety reasons, allow exceptions for flights permitted by the police. The regulations are supported by the Air Navigation Order 2016.

The Payment and Electronic Money Institution Insolvency (Scotland) (Amendment) Rules 2025

Published: Tue 4th Feb 25

The Payment and Electronic Money Institution Insolvency (Scotland) (Amendment) Rules 2025 amend the 2022 rules governing the insolvency process for payment and electronic money institutions in Scotland.

The amendments correct drafting errors flagged by the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments, specifically in relation to administrator notification requirements, and add further details needed in those notices.

The changes improve the accuracy and clarity of the insolvency procedure, particularly concerning the content of notices issued by administrators.

The M6 Toll Motorway (M6 Junction 3a to M6 Junction 11a) (Temporary Prohibition of Traffic) Order 2025

Published: Tue 4th Feb 25

This Statutory Instrument temporarily prohibits traffic on specified sections of the M6 Toll Motorway (between junctions 3a and 11a) from February 7th to December 23rd, 2025, to allow for roadworks.

Exemptions are provided for emergency vehicles and those involved in the works.

The restrictions will be clearly indicated by traffic signs.

This is an amendment correcting a typographical error in the original.

The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Stonehenge) Regulations 2025

These regulations temporarily restrict flying within a three-nautical-mile radius of Stonehenge from 16:00 UTC on June 20th to 10:00 UTC on June 21st, 2025.

The restriction, made under Article 239 of the Air Navigation Order 2016, is in response to the anticipated large gathering for the Summer Solstice and aims to ensure public safety.

Exemptions exist for certain emergency services and aircraft operating with specific permissions.

The Official Controls (Amendment) Regulations 2025

The Official Controls (Amendment) Regulations 2025 modernize UK import control procedures for animals, food, and plants following Brexit.

The regulations expand the role of plant health officers, introduce digital certification options, allow more flexible locations for controls, and create new exemption powers for low-risk goods.

They establish civil sanctions and appeals processes while updating various technical requirements across multiple related regulations to align with new border control procedures.