Non-compete clauses following the Autumn Budget 2026

Emmanuelle Ries, Employment Partner, was quoted in Personnel Today’s round-up of employment law experts’ reactions to the Autumn Budget 2026. Commenting on the Government’s proposed changes to non-compete clauses, Emmanuelle highlighted the lack of detail accompanying the announcement and the decision to undertake a further consultation before introducing legislation.

Emmanuelle noted that while ministers had reiterated their intention to ensure non-compete clauses do not act as a barrier to start-ups and scaling businesses, employers were given little additional clarity on how the proposals would work in practice. She also highlighted that the planned consultation, due to begin in early 2027, suggests any legislative changes are unlikely to be introduced in the immediate future.

Commenting on the proposals, Emmanuelle said: “Clearly change is not imminent. This will be a relief to some but frustrating to others.”

She added that, in the meantime, employers have an opportunity to review their post-termination restrictions and consider other ways of protecting business relationships, confidential information, intellectual property and succession planning.

The full article was first published by Personnel Today on 30 October 2026.