Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986

1986 CHAPTER 46

An Act to consolidate certain enactments relating to the disqualification of persons from being directors of companies, and from being otherwise concerned with a company’s affairs.

[25th July 1986]

Be it enacted by the Queen’s most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:—

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 Act applied (with modifications) (6.4.2001) by S.I. 2001/1090, reg. 4(2), Sch. 2 Pt. II

Act applied (with modifications) (29.3.2009) by 1986 c. 53, s. 90E (as inserted by S.I. 2009/2142, art. 6)

C2 Act applied (with modifications) (21.2.2009) by Banking Act 2009 (c. 1), ss. 121, 263(1) (with s. 247); S.I. 2009/296, art. 3, Sch. para. 2 (as amended (7.4.2017) by S.I. 2017/400, regs. 1(2), 5(6))

C3 Act applied (with modifications) (21.2.2009) by Banking Act 2009 (c. 1), ss. 155, 263(1) (with s. 247); S.I. 2009/296, art. 3, Sch. para. 3 (as amended (7.4.2017) by S.I. 2017/400, regs. 1(2), 5(11))

C4 Act modified by S.I. 1986/2142, arts. 1(2), 3

Act modified (8.2.2011) by The Investment Bank Special Administration Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/245), reg. 25, Sch. 4 para. 3

Act modified (30.6.2011) by The Investment Bank Special Administration (England and Wales) Rules 2011 (S.I. 2011/1301), rule 334

C5 Act modified (8.2.2011) by The Investment Bank Special Administration Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/245), reg. 23 (as amended (7.4.2017) by S.I. 2017/400, regs. 1(2), 10(6))

C6 Act applied (in part) by S.I. 1989/638, reg. 20 (as amended (1.10.2009) by The European Economic Interest Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/2399), reg. 21 (with reg. 2))

Act applied (1.8.2007) by The European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/1949), reg. 9

C7 Act: power to amend conferred (17.2.2009 for specified purposes and 21.2.2009 otherwise) by Banking Act 2009 (c. 1), ss. 158(2)(b), 159(2)(b), 263(1) (with s. 247); S.I. 2009/296, arts. 2, 3, Sch. para. 3

C8 Act excluded (10.1.2015) by The Bank Recovery and Resolution (No. 2) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/3348), art. 217

C9 Act applied (with modifications) (31.7.2015) by The European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1493), reg. 10 (with reg. 11)

C10 Act modified (12.11.2021) by The Payment and Electronic Money Institution Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2021 (S.I. 2021/1178), rules 2, 295

C11 Act modified (S.) (19.12.2022) by The Payment and Electronic Money Institution Insolvency (Scotland) Rules 2022 (S.I. 2022/1239), rules 2, 206

C12 Act: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (29.8.2023) by Financial Services and Markets Act 2023 (c. 29), s. 86(3), Sch. 11 para. 165; S.I. 2023/779, reg. 4(ddd)(xiv)

C13 Act applied (with modifications) (8.7.2021) by The Payment and Electronic Money Institution Insolvency Regulations 2021 (S.I. 2021/716), reg. 46, Sch. 1 para. 4 (with reg. 5, Sch. 2 paras. 3, 7) (as amended (4.1.2024) by The Payment and Electronic Money Institution Insolvency (Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1399), regs. 1(2), 19)

C14 Act (except for ss. 13-15) extended (N.I.) for specified purposes (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 4(3)

Commencement Information

I1 Act wholly in force at 29.12.1986 by s. 25 and S.I. 1986/1924

Preliminary E+W+S

1 Disqualification orders: general. U.K.

(1) In the circumstances specified below in this Act a court may, and under [F1 sections 6 [F2 , 8ZF] and 9A] shall, make against a person a disqualification order, that is to say an order that [F3 for a period specified in the order—

(a) he shall not be a director of a company, act as receiver of a company’s property or in any way, whether directly or indirectly, be concerned or take part in the promotion, formation or management of a company unless (in each case) he has the leave of the court, and

(b) he shall not act as an insolvency practitioner.]

(2) In each section of this Act which gives to a court power or, as the case may be, imposes on it the duty to make a disqualification order there is specified the maximum (and, in [F4 sections 6 [F5 , 8ZA and 8ZF]], the minimum) period of disqualification which may or (as the case may be) must be imposed by means of the order [F6 and, unless the court otherwise orders, the period of disqualification so imposed shall begin at the end of the period of 21 days beginning with the date of the order].

(3) Where a disqualification order is made against a person who is already subject to such an order [F7 or to a disqualification undertaking], the periods specified in those orders [F7 or, as the case may be, in the order and the undertaking] shall run concurrently.

(4) A disqualification order may be made on grounds which are or include matters other than criminal convictions, notwithstanding that the person in respect of whom it is to be made may be criminally liable in respect of those matters.

Textual Amendments

F1 Words in s. 1(1) substituted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(3), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F2 Word in s. 1(1) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(2)(a) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F3 Words in s. 1(1) substituted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 5(1); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F4 Words in s. 1(2) substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 2; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F5 Words in s. 1(2) substituted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(2)(b) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F6 Words in s. 1(2) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 5(2); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F7 Words in s. 1(3) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 2; S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C15 Ss. 1, 2 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

C16 S. 1 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

[F8 1A Disqualification undertakings: general. U.K.

(1) In the circumstances specified in sections [F9 5A, 7, 8, 8ZC [F10 , 8ZE, 8ZF and 8ZG]] the [F11 appropriate authority] may accept a disqualification undertaking, that is to say an undertaking by any person that, for a period specified in the undertaking, the person—

(a) will not be a director of a company, act as receiver of a company’s property or in any way, whether directly or indirectly, be concerned or take part in the promotion, formation or management of a company unless (in each case) he has the leave of a court, and

(b) will not act as an insolvency practitioner.

(2) The maximum period which may be specified in a disqualification undertaking is 15 years; and the minimum period which may be specified in a disqualification undertaking under section 7 [F12 , 8ZC or 8ZF] is two years.

(3) Where a disqualification undertaking by a person who is already subject to such an undertaking or to a disqualification order is accepted, the periods specified in those undertakings or (as the case may be) the undertaking and the order shall run concurrently.

(4) In determining whether to accept a disqualification undertaking by any person, the [F13 appropriate authority] may take account of matters other than criminal convictions, notwithstanding that the person may be criminally liable in respect of those matters.]

[F14 (5) In this section “the appropriate authority” means—

(a) in relation to an undertaking under section 8ZF or 8ZG, an officer of Revenue and Customs;

(b) in any other case, the Secretary of State.]

Textual Amendments

F8 S. 1A inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 6(2); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F9 Words in s. 1A(1) substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 3(2); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F10 Words in s. 1A(1) substituted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(3)(a)(i) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F11 Words in s. 1A(1) substituted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(3)(a)(ii) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F12 Words in s. 1A(2) substituted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(3)(b) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F13 Words in s. 1A(4) substituted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(3)(c) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F14 S. 1A(5) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(3)(d) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C17 S. 1A applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

Disqualification for general misconduct in connection with companies E+W+S

2 Disqualification on conviction of indictable offence. E+W+S

(1) The court may make a disqualification order against a person where he is convicted of an indictable offence (whether on indictment or summarily) in connection with the promotion, formation, management [F15 liquidation or striking off] of a company [F16 with the receivership of a company’s property or with his being an administrative receiver of a company].

[F17 (1A) In subsection (1), “company” includes overseas company.]

(2) “The court” for this purpose means—

(a) any court having jurisdiction to wind up the company in relation to which the offence was committed, or

[F18 (aa) in relation to an overseas company not falling within paragraph (a), the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session, or]

(b) the court by or before which the person is convicted of the offence, or

(c) in the case of a summary conviction in England and Wales, any other magistrates’ court acting [F19 in the same local justice] area;

M1 and for the purposes of this section the definition of “indictable offence” in Schedule 1 to the Interpretation Act 1978 applies for Scotland as it does for England and Wales.

(3) The maximum period of disqualification under this section is—

(a) where the disqualification order is made by a court of summary jurisdiction, 5 years, and

(b) in any other case, 15 years.

Textual Amendments

F15 Words in s. 2(1) substituted (1.7.1995) by 1994 c. 40, s. 39, Sch. 11 para. 6; S.I. 1995/1433, art. 3

F16 Words in s. 2(1) substituted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 3; S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F17 S. 2(1A) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 4(2); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F18 S. 2(2)(aa) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 4(3); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F19 Words in s. 2(2)(c) substituted (1.4.2005) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), ss. 109(1), 110, Sch. 8 para. 30(a); S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C18 Ss. 1, 2 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

Marginal Citations

M1 1978 c. 30.

3 Disqualification for persistent breaches of companies legislation. E+W+S

(1) The court may make a disqualification order against a person where it appears to it that he has been persistently in default in relation to [F20 provisions of the companies legislation requiring any return, account or other document to be filed with, delivered or sent, or notice of any matter to be given, to the registrar of companies] [F20 relevant provisions of the companies legislation (see subsection (3B))].

(2) On an application to the court for an order to be made under this section, the fact that a person has been persistently in default in relation to [F21 such provisions as are mentioned above] [F21 relevant provisions of the companies legislation] may (without prejudice to its proof in any other manner) be conclusively proved by showing that in the 5 years ending with the date of the application he has been adjudged guilty (whether or not on the same occasion) of three or more defaults in relation to those provisions.

(3) A person is to be treated under subsection (2) as being adjudged guilty of a default in relation to any [F22 provision of that legislation] [F22 such provision] if—

(a) he is convicted (whether on indictment or summarily) of an offence consisting in a contravention of or failure to comply with that provision (whether on his own part or on the part of any company),

[F23 (aa) a financial penalty is imposed on the person in respect of such an offence by virtue of regulations under—

(i) section 1132A of the Companies Act 2006, or

(ii) section 39 of the Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act 2022,] or

(b) a default order is made against him, that is to say an order under any of the following provisions—

(i) [F24 section 452 of the Companies Act 2006] (order requiring delivery of company accounts),

[F25 (ia) [F26 section 456] of that Act (order requiring preparation of revised accounts),]

[F27 (ii) section 1113 of that Act (enforcement of company's filing obligations)]

(iii) section 41 of the Insolvency Act [F28 1986](enforcement of receiver’s or manager’s duty to make returns), or

(iv) section 170 of that Act (corresponding provision for liquidator in winding up),

in respect of any such contravention of or failure to comply with that provision (whether on his own part or on the part of any company).

[F29 (3A) In this section “company” includes overseas company.]

[F30 (3B) In this section “relevant provisions of the companies legislation” means—

(a) any provision of the companies legislation requiring any return, account or other document to be filed with, delivered or sent, or notice of any matter to be given, to the registrar of companies,

(b) sections 167M and 167N of the Companies Act 2006 (prohibitions on acting as director where identity not verified or where there has been a failure to notify a directorship), and

(c) sections 790LQ and 790LR of the Companies Act 2006 (persons with significant control: ongoing duties in relation to identity verification).]

(4) In this section “the court” means

[F31 (a)] any court having jurisdiction to wind up any of the companies in relation to which the offence or other default has been or is alleged to have been committed[F32 , or

(b) in relation to an overseas company not falling within paragraph (a), the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session.]

[F33 [F34 (4A) In this section “the companies legislation” means the Companies Acts and Parts 1 to 7 of the Insolvency Act 1986 (company insolvency and winding up).]]

[F34 (4A) In this section “the companies legislation” means—

(a) the Companies Acts,

(b) Parts A1 to 7 of the Insolvency Act 1986 (company insolvency and winding up), and

(c) Part 1 of the Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act 2022 (registration of overseas entities).]

(5) The maximum period of disqualification under this section is 5 years.

Textual Amendments

F20 Words in s. 3(1) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 31(2), 219(1)(2)(b)

F21 Words in s. 3(2) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 31(3), 219(1)(2)(b)

F22 Words in s. 3(3) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 31(4)(a), 219(1)(2)(b)

F23 S. 3(3)(aa) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 31(4)(b), 219(1)(2)(b)

F24 Words in s. 3(3)(b)(i) substituted (6.4.2008) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments etc) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/948), art. 3(1), Sch. 1 para. 106(2)(a) (with arts. 6, 11, 12)

F25 S. 3(3)(b)(ia) added (subject to the transitional and savings provisions in S.I. 1990/2569, arts. 3, 6) after s. 3(3)(b)(i) by Companies Act 1989 (c. 40, SIF 27), ss. 23, 213(2), Sch. 10 para. 35(2)(b)

F26 Words in s. 3(3)(b)(ia) substituted (6.4.2008) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments etc) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/948), art. 3(1), Sch. 1 para. 106(2)(b) (with arts. 6, 11, 12)

F27 Words in s. 3(b)(ii) substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(2)(a)(i) (with art. 10)

F28 Words in s. 3(b)(iii) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(2)(a)(ii) (with art. 10)

F29 S. 3(3A) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 5(2); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F30 S. 3(3B) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 31(5), 219(1)(2)(b)

F31 Words in s. 3(4) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 5(3)(a); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F32 S. 3(4)(b) and preceding word inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 5(3)(b); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F33 S. 3(4A) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(2)(b) (with art. 10)

F34 S. 3(4A) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 31(6), 219(1)(2)(b)

4 Disqualification for fraud, etc., in winding up. E+W+S

(1) The court may make a disqualification order against a person if, in the course of the winding up of a company, it appears that he—

(a) has been guilty of an offence for which he is liable (whether he has ben convicted or not) under [F35 section 993 of the Companies Act 2006] (fraudulent trading), or

(b) has otherwise been guilty, while an officer or liquidator of the company [F36 receiver of the company’s property or administrative receiver of the company], of any fraud in relation to the company or of any breach of his duty as such officer, liquidator, [F36 receiver or administrative receiver].

(2) In this section “the court” means any court having jurisdiction to wind up any of the companies in relation to which the offence or other default has been or is alleged to have been committed; and “officer” includes a shadow director.

(3) The maximum period of disqualification under this section is 15 years.

Textual Amendments

F35 Words in s. 4(1)(a) substituted (1.10.2007) by The Companies Act 2006 (Commencement No. 3, Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2007 (S.I. 2007/2194), art. 10(1), Sch. 4 para. 46 (with art. 12)

F36 Words in s. 4(1)(b) substituted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 4; S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C19 Ss. 4–6 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

5 Disqualification on summary conviction. E+W+S

(1) An offence counting for the purposes of this section is one of which a person is convicted (either on indictment or summarily) in consequence of a contravention of, or failure to comply with, any [F37 provision of the companies legislation requiring a return, account or other document to be filed with, delivered or sent, or notice of any matter to be given, to the registrar of companies] [F37 of the relevant provisions of the companies legislation] (whether the contravention or failure is on the person’s own part or on the part of any company).

(2) Where a person is convicted of a summary offence counting for those purposes, the court by which he is convicted (or, in England and Wales, any other magistrates’ court acting [F38 in the same local justice] area) may make a disqualification order against him if the circumstances specified in the next subsection are present.

[F39 (3) Those circumstances are that, during the 5 years ending with the date of the conviction, the person has had made against him, or has been convicted of, in total not less than 3 default orders and offences counting for the purposes of this section; and those offences may include that of which he is convicted as mentioned in subsection (2) and any other offence of which he is convicted on the same occasion.]

[F39 (3) Those circumstances are that, during the 5 years ending with the date of the conviction, there have been no fewer than 3 relevant findings of guilt in relation to the person.

(3A) For these purposes, there is a relevant finding of guilt in relation to the person if —

(a) the person is convicted of an offence counting for the purposes of this section (including the offence of which the person is convicted as mentioned in subsection (2) and any other offence of which the person is convicted on the same occasion),

(b) a financial penalty of the kind mentioned in section 3(3)(aa) is imposed on the person, or

(c) a default order within the meaning of section 3(3)(b) is made against the person.]

(4) For the purposes of this section—

(a) the definition of “summary offence” in Schedule 1 to the M2 Interpretation Act 1978 applies for Scotland as for England and Wales, [F40 and

(b) “default order” means the same as in section 3(3)(b).]

[F41 [F42 (4A) In this section “the companies legislation” means the Companies Acts and Parts 1 to 7 of the Insolvency Act 1986 (company insolvency and winding up).]]

[F42 (4A) In this section “relevant provisions of the companies legislation” has the meaning given by section 3(3B).]

[F43 (4B) In this section “company” includes overseas company.]

(5) The maximum period of disqualification under this section is 5 years.

Textual Amendments

F37 Words in s. 5(1) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 33(2), 219(1)(2)(b)

F38 Words in s. 5(2) substituted (1.4.2005) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), ss. 109(1), 110, Sch. 8 para. 30(b); S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)

F39 S. 5(3)(3A) substituted for s. 5(3) (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 33(3), 219(1)(2)(b)

F40 S. 5(4)(b) and word omitted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by virtue of Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 33(4), 219(1)(2)(b)

F41 S. 5(4A) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(3) (with art. 10)

F42 S. 5(4A) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 33(5), 219(1)(2)(b)

F43 S. 5(4B) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 6; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C20 Ss. 4–6 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

Marginal Citations

M2 1978 c. 30.

[F44 5A Disqualification for certain convictions abroad E+W+S

(1) If it appears to the Secretary of State that it is expedient in the public interest that a disqualification order under this section should be made against a person, the Secretary of State may apply to the court for such an order.

(2) The court may, on an application under subsection (1), make a disqualification order against a person who has been convicted of a relevant foreign offence.

(3) A “relevant foreign offence” is an offence committed outside Great Britain—

(a) in connection with—

(i) the promotion, formation, management, liquidation or striking off of a company (or any similar procedure),

(ii) the receivership of a company's property (or any similar procedure), or

(iii) a person being an administrative receiver of a company (or holding a similar position), and

(b) which corresponds to an indictable offence under the law of England and Wales or (as the case may be) an indictable offence under the law of Scotland.

(4) Where it appears to the Secretary of State that, in the case of a person who has offered to give a disqualification undertaking—

(a) the person has been convicted of a relevant foreign offence, and

(b) it is expedient in the public interest that the Secretary of State should accept the undertaking (instead of applying, or proceeding with an application, for a disqualification order),

the Secretary of State may accept the undertaking.

(5) In this section—

• “company” includes an overseas company;

• “the court” means the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session.

(6) The maximum period of disqualification under an order under this section is 15 years.]

Textual Amendments

F44 S. 5A inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force with effect in accordance with s. 104(2) of the amending Act) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 104(1), 164(1) (with s. 104(2)); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(c) (with Sch. para. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C21 S. 5A applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

Disqualification for unfitness U.K.

6 Duty of court to disqualify unfit directors F45 .... E+W+S

(1) The court shall make a disqualification order against a person in any case where, on an application under this section F46 ...—

[F47 (a) the court is satisfied—

(i) that the person is or has been a director of a company which has at any time become insolvent (whether while the person was a director or subsequently), or

(ii) that the person has been a director of a company which has at any time been dissolved without becoming insolvent (whether while the person was a director or subsequently), and]

[F47 (b) the court is satisfied that the person’s conduct as a director of that company (either taken alone or taken together with the person’s conduct as a director of one or more other companies or overseas companies) makes the person unfit to be concerned in the management of a company.]

[F48 (1A) In this section references to a person's conduct as a director of any company or overseas company include, where that company or overseas company has become insolvent, references to that person's conduct in relation to any matter connected with or arising out of the insolvency.]

(2) For the purposes of this section F49 ... , a company becomes insolvent if—

(a) the company goes into liquidation at a time when its assets are insufficient for the payment of its debts and other liabilities and the expenses of the winding up,

[F50 (b) the company enters administration,]

(c) an administrative receiver of the company is appointed;

F51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F52 (2A) For the purposes of this section, an overseas company becomes insolvent if the company enters into insolvency proceedings of any description (including interim proceedings) in any jurisdiction.]

[F53 (3) In this section and section 7(2), “the court” means—

(a) where the company in question is being or has been wound up by the court, that court,

(b) where the company in question is being or has been wound up voluntarily, any court which has or (as the case may be) had jurisdiction to wind it up,

[F54 (c) where neither paragraph (a) nor (b) applies but an administrator or administrative receiver has at any time been appointed in respect of the company in question, any court which has jurisdiction to wind it up],

[F55 (d) where the company in question has been dissolved without becoming insolvent, a court which at the time it was dissolved had jurisdiction to wind it up.]

(3A) Sections 117 and 120 of the M3 Insolvency Act 1986 (jurisdiction) shall apply for the purposes of subsection (3) as if the references in the definitions of “registered office” to the presentation of the petition for winding up were references—

(a) in a case within paragraph (b) of that subsection, to the passing of the resolution for voluntary winding up,

[F56 (b) in a case within paragraph (c) of that subsection, to the appointment of the administrator or (as the case may be) administrative receiver.]

(3B) Nothing in subsection (3) invalidates any proceedings by reason of their being taken in the wrong court; and proceedings—

(a) for or in connection with a disqualification order under this section, or

(b) in connection with a disqualification undertaking accepted under section 7,

may be retained in the court in which the proceedings were commenced, although it may not be the court in which they ought to have been commenced.

(3C) In this section and section 7, “director” includes a shadow director]

(4) Under this section the minimum period of disqualification is 2 years, and the maximum period is 15 years.

Textual Amendments

F45 Words in s. 6 heading omitted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(2)(a), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F46 Words in s. 6(1) omitted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(2)(b)(i), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F47 S. 6(1)(a)(b) substituted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(2)(b)(ii), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F48 S. 6(1A) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(2)(b), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d) (with Sch. para. 2)

F49 Words in s. 6(2) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 7; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F50 S. 6(2)(b) substituted (15.9.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 248(3), 279, Sch. 17 para. 41(a) (with s. 249(1)-(3)); S.I. 2003/2093, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in arts. 3-8 (as amended by S.I. 2003/2332, art. 2))

F51 Words in s. 6(2) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(2)(c), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d) (with Sch. para. 2)

F52 S. 6(2A) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(2)(d), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d) (with Sch. para. 2)

F53 S. 6(3)-(3C) substituted (2.4.2001) for s. 6(3) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 5; S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F54 S. 6(3)(c) substituted (15.9.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 248(3), 279, Sch. 17 para. 41(b) (with s. 249(1)-(3)); S.I. 2003/2093, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in arts. 3-8 (as amended by S.I. 2003/2332, art. 2))

F55 S. 6(3)(d) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(2)(c), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F56 S. 6(3A)(b) substituted (15.9.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 248(3), 279, Sch. 17 para. 41(c) (with s. 249(1)-(3)); S.I. 2003/2093, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in arts. 3-8 (as amended by S.I. 2003/2332, art. 2))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C22 Ss. 4–6 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

C23 Ss. 6–7 extended (with modifications) by S.I. 1986/2142, art. 6

C24 s. 6 applied (with modifications) (1.12.1994) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8

S. 6 amended (1.12.2001) by 2000 c. 8, s. 356(1) (as substituted by 2000 c. 39, ss. 15(3)(a)(b), 16(1)); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

C26 S. 6(2) applied (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 108(3), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(e)

Marginal Citations

M3 1986 c. 45.

7 [F57 Disqualification orders under section 6: applications and acceptance of undertakings] E+W+S

(1) If it appears to the Secretary of State that it is expedient in the public interest that a disqualification order under section 6 should be made against any person, an application for the making of such an order against that person may be made—

(a) by the Secretary of State, or

(b) if the Secretary of State so directs in the case of a person who is or has been a director of a company which is being [F58 or has been] wound up by the court in England and Wales, by the official receiver.

(2) Except with the leave of the court, an application for the making under that section of a disqualification order against any person shall not be made after the end of the period of [F59 3 years] beginning with [F60 —

(a) in a case where the person is or has been a director of a company which has become insolvent, the day on which the company became insolvent, or

(b) in a case where the person has been a director of a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent, the day on which the company was dissolved.]

[F61 (2A) If it appears to the Secretary of State that the conditions mentioned in section 6(1) are satisfied as respects any person who has offered to give him a disqualification undertaking, he may accept the undertaking if it appears to him that it is expedient in the public interest that he should do so (instead of applying, or proceeding with an application, for a disqualification order).]

F62 (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4) The Secretary of State or the official receiver may require [F63 any person] —

(a) to furnish him with such information with respect to [F64 that person's or another person's conduct as a director of a company which has at any time become insolvent [F65 or been dissolved without becoming insolvent] (whether while the person was a director or subsequently), and]

(b) to produce and permit inspection of such books, papers and other records [F66 as are considered by the Secretary of State or (as the case may be) the official receiver to be relevant to that person's or another person's conduct as such a director],

as the Secretary of State or the official receiver may reasonably require for the purpose of determining whether to exercise, or of exercising, any function of his under this section.

[F67 (5) Subsections (1A) and (2) of section 6 apply for the purposes of this section as they apply for the purposes of that section.]

Textual Amendments

F57 S. 7 heading substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 6.4.2016 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 107(4), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2016/321, reg. 3(b) (with Sch. paras. 1, 2)

F58 Words in s. 7(1)(b) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 6(a); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F59 Words in s. 7(2) substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 108(1), 164(1) (with s. 108(2)); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(e)

F60 S. 7(2)(a)(b) substituted for words (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(3)(a), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F61 S. 7(2A) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 6(3); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F62 S. 7(3) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 6.4.2016 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 107(3), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2016/321, reg. 3(b) (with Sch. paras. 1, 2)

F63 Words in s. 7(4) substituted (1.10.2015) by Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), s. 115(7), Sch. 6 para. 11(2); S.I. 2015/1732, art. 2(e)(iv) (with art. 5)

F64 Words in s. 7(4)(a) substituted (1.10.2015) by Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), s. 115(7), Sch. 6 para. 11(3); S.I. 2015/1732, art. 2(e)(iv) (with art. 5)

F65 Words in s. 7(4)(a) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(3)(b), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F66 Words in s. 7(4)(b) substituted (1.10.2015) by Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), s. 115(7), Sch. 6 para. 11(4); S.I. 2015/1732, art. 2(e)(iv) (with art. 5)

F67 S. 7(5) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 8; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

C27 S. 7 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

C28 S. 7 applied (with modifications) (1.12.1994) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8

S. 7 amended (1.12.2001) by 2000 c. 8, s. 356(1) (as substituted by 2000 c. 39, ss. 15(3)(a)(b), 16(1)); S.I. 3538, art. 2(1)

[F68 7A Office-holder's report on conduct of directors E+W+S

(1) The office-holder in respect of a company which is insolvent must prepare a report (a “conduct report”) about the conduct of each person who was a director of the company—

(a) on the insolvency date, or

(b) at any time during the period of 3 years ending with that date.

(2) For the purposes of this section a company is insolvent if—

(a) the company is in liquidation and at the time it went into liquidation its assets were insufficient for the payment of its debts and other liabilities and the expenses of the winding up,

(b) the company has entered administration, or

(c) an administrative receiver of the company has been appointed;

and subsection (1A) of section 6 applies for the purposes of this section as it applies for the purpose of that section.

(3) A conduct report must, in relation to each person, describe any conduct of the person which may assist the Secretary of State in deciding whether to exercise the power under section 7(1) or (2A) in relation to the person.

(4) The office-holder must send the conduct report to the Secretary of State before the end of—

(a) the period of 3 months beginning with the insolvency date, or

(b) such other longer period as the Secretary of State considers appropriate in the particular circumstances.

(5) If new information comes to the attention of an office-holder, the office-holder must send that information to the Secretary of State as soon as reasonably practicable.

(6) “New information” is information which an office-holder considers should have been included in a conduct report prepared in relation to the company, or would have been so included had it been available before the report was sent.

(7) If there is more than one office-holder in respect of a company at any particular time (because the company is insolvent by virtue of falling within more than one paragraph of subsection (2) at that time), subsection (1) applies only to the first of the office-holders to be appointed.

(8) In the case of a company which is at different times insolvent by virtue of falling within one or more different paragraphs of subsection (2)—

(a) the references in subsection (1) to the insolvency date are to be read as references to the first such date during the period in which the company is insolvent, and

(b) subsection (1) does not apply to an office-holder if at any time during the period in which the company is insolvent a conduct report has already been prepared and sent to the Secretary of State.

(9) The “office-holder” in respect of a company which is insolvent is—

(a) in the case of a company being wound up by the court in England and Wales, the official receiver;

(b) in the case of a company being wound up otherwise, the liquidator;

(c) in the case of a company in administration, the administrator;

(d) in the case of a company of which there is an administrative receiver, the receiver.

(10) The “insolvency date”—

(a) in the case of a company being wound up by the court, means the date on which the court makes the winding-up order (see section 125 of the Insolvency Act 1986);

(b) in the case of a company being wound up by way of a members' voluntary winding up, means the date on which the liquidator forms the opinion that the company will be unable to pay its debts in full (together with interest at the official rate) within the period stated in the directors' declaration of solvency under section 89 of the Insolvency Act 1986;

(c) in the case of a company being wound up by way of a creditors' voluntary winding up where no such declaration under section 89 of that Act has been made, means the date of the passing of the resolution for voluntary winding up;

(d) in the case of a company which has entered administration, means the date the company did so;

(e) in the case of a company in respect of which an administrative receiver has been appointed, means the date of that appointment.

(11) For the purposes of subsection (10)(e), any appointment of an administrative receiver to replace an administrative receiver who has died or vacated office pursuant to section 45 of the Insolvency Act 1986 is to be ignored.

(12) In this section—

• “court” has the same meaning as in section 6;

• “director” includes a shadow director.]

Textual Amendments

F68 S. 7A inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 6.4.2016 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 107(2), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2016/321, reg. 3(b) (with Sch. paras. 1, 2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

8 [F69 Disqualification of director on finding of unfitness.] E+W+S

[F70 (1) If it appears to the Secretary of State F71 ... that it is expedient in the public interest that a disqualification order should be made against a person who is, or has been, a director or shadow director of a company, he may apply to the court for such an order.

F72 (1A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ]

(2) The court may make a disqualification order against a person where, on an application under this section, it is satisfied that his conduct in relation to the company [F73 (either taken alone or taken together with his conduct as a director or shadow director of one or more other companies or overseas companies)] makes him unfit to be concerned in the management of a company.

[F74 (2A) Where it appears to the Secretary of State F75 ... that, in the case of a person who has offered to give him a disqualification undertaking—

(a) the conduct of the person in relation to a company of which the person is or has been a director or shadow director [F76 (either taken alone or taken together with his conduct as a director or shadow director of one or more other companies or overseas companies)] makes him unfit to be concerned in the management of a company, and

(b) it is expedient in the public interest that he should accept the undertaking (instead of applying, or proceeding with an application, for a disqualification order),

he may accept the undertaking.]

[F77 (2B) Subsection (1A) of section 6 applies for the purposes of this section as it applies for the purposes of that section.]

(3) In this section “the court” means the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session.

(4) The maximum period of disqualification under this section is 15 years.

Textual Amendments

F69 S. 8 heading substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 109(2), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(e)

F70 S. 8(1)(1A) substituted (1.12.2001) for s. 8(1) by S.I. 2001/3649, arts. 1, 39

F71 Words in s. 8(1) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 109(1)(a), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(e)

F72 S. 8(1A) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 109(1)(b), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(e)

F73 Words in s. 8(2) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(3)(a), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d) (with Sch. para. 2)

F74 S. 8(2A) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 6(4); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F75 Words in s. 8(2A) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 109(1)(c), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(e)

F76 Words in s. 8(2A)(a) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(3)(b), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d) (with Sch. para. 2)

F77 S. 8(2B) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(3)(c), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d) (with Sch. para. 2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

C29 S. 8 extended (with modifications) by S.I. 1986/2142, art. 6

C30 S. 8 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

C31 S. 8 applied (with modifications) (1.12.1994) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3649, arts. 1, 470)

C32 S. 8 applied (with modifications) (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 5(1) (with Sch. 13 para. 5(3))

[F78 Persons instructing unfit directors E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F78 Ss. 8ZA-8ZE and cross-heading inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 105, 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(c) (with Sch. para. 1)

8ZA Order disqualifying person instructing unfit director F79 ... E+W+S

(1) The court may make a disqualification order against a person (“P”) if, on an application under section 8ZB, it is satisfied—

(a) either—

(i) that a disqualification order under section 6 has been made against a person who is or has been a director (but not a shadow director) of a company, or

(ii) that the Secretary of State has accepted a disqualification undertaking from such a person under section 7(2A), and

(b) that P exercised the requisite amount of influence over the person.

That person is referred to in this section as “the main transgressor”.

(2) For the purposes of this section, P exercised the requisite amount of influence over the main transgressor if any of the conduct—

(a) for which the main transgressor is subject to the order made under section 6, or

(b) in relation to which the undertaking was accepted from the main transgressor under section 7(2A),

was the result of the main transgressor acting in accordance with P's directions or instructions.

(3) But P does not exercise the requisite amount of influence over the main transgressor by reason only that the main transgressor acts on advice given by P in a professional capacity.

(4) Under this section the minimum period of disqualification is 2 years and the maximum period is 15 years.

(5) In this section and section 8ZB “the court” has the same meaning as in section 6; and subsection (3B) of section 6 applies in relation to proceedings mentioned in subsection (6) below as it applies in relation to proceedings mentioned in section 6(3B)(a) and (b).

(6) The proceedings are proceedings—

(a) for or in connection with a disqualification order under this section, or

(b) in connection with a disqualification undertaking accepted under section 8ZC.

Textual Amendments

F79 Words in s. 8ZA heading omitted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(4), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

8ZB Application for order under section 8ZA E+W+S

(1) If it appears to the Secretary of State that it is expedient in the public interest that a disqualification order should be made against a person under section 8ZA, the Secretary of State may—

(a) make an application to the court for such an order, or

(b) in a case where an application for an order under section 6 against the main transgressor has been made by the official receiver, direct the official receiver to make such an application.

(2) Except with the leave of the court, an application for a disqualification order under section 8ZA must not be made after the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the day on which the company in question became insolvent (within the meaning given by section 6(2)) [F80 or was dissolved without becoming insolvent].

(3) Subsection (4) of section 7 applies for the purposes of this section as it applies for the purposes of that section.

Textual Amendments

F80 Words in s. 8ZB(2) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(5), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

8ZC Disqualification undertaking instead of an order under section 8ZA E+W+S

(1) If it appears to the Secretary of State that it is expedient in the public interest to do so, the Secretary of State may accept a disqualification undertaking from a person (“P”) if—

(a) any of the following is the case—

(i) a disqualification order under section 6 has been made against a person who is or has been a director (but not a shadow director) of a company,

(ii) the Secretary of State has accepted a disqualification undertaking from such a person under section 7(2A), or

(iii) it appears to the Secretary of State that such an undertaking could be accepted from such a person (if one were offered), and

(b) it appears to the Secretary of State that P exercised the requisite amount of influence over the person.

That person is referred to in this section as “the main transgressor”.

(2) For the purposes of this section, P exercised the requisite amount of influence over the main transgressor if any of the conduct—

(a) for which the main transgressor is subject to the disqualification order made under section 6,

(b) in relation to which the disqualification undertaking was accepted from the main transgressor under section 7(2A), or

(c) which led the Secretary of State to the conclusion set out in subsection (1)(a)(iii),

was the result of the main transgressor acting in accordance with P's directions or instructions.

(3) But P does not exercise the requisite amount of influence over the main transgressor by reason only that the main transgressor acts on advice given by P in a professional capacity.

(4) Subsection (4) of section 7 applies for the purposes of this section as it applies for the purposes of that section.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

8ZD Order disqualifying person instructing unfit director: other cases E+W+S

(1) The court may make a disqualification order against a person (“P”) if, on an application under this section, it is satisfied—

(a) either—

(i) that a disqualification order under section 8 has been made against a person who is or has been a director (but not a shadow director) of a company, or

(ii) that the Secretary of State has accepted a disqualification undertaking from such a person under section 8(2A), and

(b) that P exercised the requisite amount of influence over the person.

That person is referred to in this section as “the main transgressor”.

(2) The Secretary of State may make an application to the court for a disqualification order against P under this section if it appears to the Secretary of State that it is expedient in the public interest for such an order to be made.

(3) For the purposes of this section, P exercised the requisite amount of influence over the main transgressor if any of the conduct—

(a) for which the main transgressor is subject to the order made under section 8, or

(b) in relation to which the undertaking was accepted from the main transgressor under section 8(2A),

was the result of the main transgressor acting in accordance with P's directions or instructions.

(4) But P does not exercise the requisite amount of influence over the main transgressor by reason only that the main transgressor acts on advice given by P in a professional capacity.

(5) Under this section the maximum period of disqualification is 15 years.

(6) In this section “the court” means the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

8ZE Disqualification undertaking instead of an order under section 8ZD E+W+S

(1) If it appears to the Secretary of State that it is expedient in the public interest to do so, the Secretary of State may accept a disqualification undertaking from a person (“P”) if—

(a) any of the following is the case—

(i) a disqualification order under section 8 has been made against a person who is or has been a director (but not a shadow director) of a company,

(ii) the Secretary of State has accepted a disqualification undertaking from such a person under section 8(2A), or

(iii) it appears to the Secretary of State that such an undertaking could be accepted from such a person (if one were offered), and

(b) it appears to the Secretary of State that P exercised the requisite amount of influence over the person.

That person is referred to in this section as “the main transgressor”.

(2) For the purposes of this section, P exercised the requisite amount of influence over the main transgressor if any of the conduct—

(a) for which the main transgressor is subject to the disqualification order made under section 8,

(b) in relation to which the disqualification undertaking was accepted from the main transgressor under section 8(2A), or

(c) which led the Secretary of State to the conclusion set out in subsection (1)(a)(iii),

was the result of the main transgressor acting in accordance with P's directions or instructions.

(3) But P does not exercise the requisite amount of influence over the main transgressor by reason only that the main transgressor acts on advice given by P in a professional capacity.]

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

[F81 Disqualification for promoting tax avoidance U.K.

Textual Amendments

F81 Ss. 8ZF, 8ZG and cross-heading inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 1

8ZF Disqualification following winding up under s.85 of Finance Act 2022 U.K.

(1) The court must make a disqualification order against a person if, on an application under this section, it is satisfied—

(a) that the person has at any time after the coming into force of this section been a director of a company while the company was a relevant body within the meaning of section 85(4) of the Finance Act 2022 (winding up of promoters of tax avoidance schemes), and

(b) that a court has made a winding-up order in respect of the company under section 85(3) of that Act (whether while the person was a director or subsequently).

(2) An officer of Revenue and Customs may make an application to the court for a disqualification order against a person under this section if it appears to the officer that it is expedient in the public interest for such an order to be made.

(3) Except with the permission of the court, an application under subsection (2) may not be made after the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the day on which the winding-up order in question is made.

(4) Under this section the minimum period of disqualification is 2 years, and the maximum is 15 years.

(5) An officer of Revenue and Customs may accept a disqualification undertaking if it appears to the officer—

(a) that the conditions mentioned in subsection (1) are satisfied in relation to the person who has offered to give the disqualification undertaking, and

(b) that it is expedient in the public interest that the officer should accept the undertaking (instead of applying, or proceeding with an application, for a disqualification order).

(6) In this section—

• “company” includes overseas company;

• “court” means—

  (a)

  the court having jurisdiction for the purposes of the Insolvency Act 1986, or

  (b)

  the High Court in Northern Ireland;

• “director” includes a shadow director.

8ZG Disqualification on finding of unfitness: promoters of tax avoidance U.K.

(1) The court may make a disqualification order against a person if, on an application under this section, it is satisfied—

(a) that the person—

(i) is a director of a company that carries on business as a promoter within the meaning of Part 5 of the Finance Act 2014 (promoters of tax avoidance schemes), or

(ii) after the coming into force of this section, was a director of a company at a time at which it did so, and

(b) that the person’s conduct in relation to the company (either taken alone or taken together with the person’s conduct as a director of one or more other companies) makes the person unfit to be concerned in the management of a company.

(2) For the purposes of subsection (1)(a)(i), Part 5 of the Finance Act 2014 has effect as if, in section 234 of that Act—

(a) references to “tax” included value added tax and other indirect taxes, and

(b) the definition of “tax advantage” also included a tax advantage as defined for VAT in paragraph 6, and for other indirect taxes in paragraph 7, of Schedule 17 to the Finance (No. 2) Act 2017 (disclosure of tax avoidance schemes: VAT and other indirect taxes).

(3) References in subsection (1)(b) to a person’s conduct include conduct occurring before, as well as after, the coming into force of this section.

(4) An officer of Revenue and Customs may make an application to the court for a disqualification order against a person under this section if it appears to the officer that it is expedient in the public interest for such an order to be made.

(5) The maximum period of disqualification under this section is 15 years.

(6) An officer of Revenue and Customs may accept a disqualification undertaking if it appears to the officer—

(a) that the conditions mentioned in subsection (1) are satisfied in relation to the person who has offered to give the disqualification undertaking, and

(b) that it is expedient in the public interest that the officer should accept the undertaking (instead of applying, or proceeding with an application, for a disqualification order).

(7) In this section—

• “company” includes overseas company;

• “the court” means—

  (a)

  in England and Wales, the High Court;

  (b)

  in Scotland, the Court of Session;

  (c)

  in Northern Ireland, the High Court in Northern Ireland;

• “director” includes a shadow director;

• “indirect tax” has the same meaning as in Schedule 17 to the Finance (No. 2) Act 2017 (see paragraph 2(1) of that Schedule).]

[F82 Further provision about disqualification undertakings] E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F82 S. 8A cross-heading inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 9; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

[F83 8A Variation etc. of disqualification undertaking. U.K.

(1) The court may, on the application of a person who is subject to a disqualification undertaking—

(a) reduce the period for which the undertaking is to be in force, or

(b) provide for it to cease to be in force.

(2) On the hearing of an application under subsection (1), the Secretary of State shall appear and call the attention of the court to any matters which seem to him to be relevant, and may himself give evidence or call witnesses.

[F84 (2ZA) Subsection (2) does not apply to an application in the case of an undertaking given under section 8ZF or 8ZG, and in such a case on the hearing of the application an officer of Revenue and Customs—

(a) must appear and call the attention of the court to any matters which appear to the officer to be relevant;

(b) may give evidence or call witnesses.]

[F85 (2A) Subsection (2) does not apply to an application in the case of an undertaking given under section 9B, and in such a case on the hearing of the application whichever of the [F86 Competition and Markets Authority] or a specified regulator (within the meaning of section 9E) accepted the undertaking—

(a) must appear and call the attention of the court to any matters which appear to it or him (as the case may be) to be relevant;

(b) may give evidence or call witnesses.]

[F87 (3) In this section “the court”—

[F88 (za) in the case of an undertaking given under section 8ZC has the same meaning as in section 8ZA;

(zb) in the case of an undertaking given under section 8ZE means the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session;]

(a) in the case of an undertaking given under section 9B means the High Court or (in Scotland) the Court of Session;

(b) in any other case has the same meaning as in section [F89 5A(5),] 7(2) [F90 , 8, 8ZF or 8ZG] (as the case may be).]]

Textual Amendments

F83 S. 8A inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 6(5); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F84 S. 8A(2ZA) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(4)(a) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F85 S. 8A(2A) inserted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(4), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F86 Words in s. 8A(2A) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 53(a) (with art. 3)

F87 S. 8A(3) substituted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(5), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F88 S. 8A(3)(za)(zb) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 10(a); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F89 Word in s. 8A(3)(b) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 10(b); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F90 Words in s. 8A(3)(b) substituted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(4)(b) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

F91 9 Matters for determining unfitness of directors. E+W+S

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F91 S. 9 omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(4), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

[F92 Disqualification for competition infringements E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F92 Ss. 9A-9E and cross-heading inserted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(2), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

9A Competition disqualification order E+W+S

(1) The court must make a disqualification order against a person if the following two conditions are satisfied in relation to him.

(2) The first condition is that an undertaking which is a company of which he is a director commits a breach of competition law.

(3) The second condition is that the court considers that his conduct as a director makes him unfit to be concerned in the management of a company.

(4) An undertaking commits a breach of competition law if it engages in conduct which infringes [F93 either of the following]—

(a) the Chapter 1 prohibition (within the meaning of the Competition Act 1998) (prohibition on agreements, etc. preventing, restricting or distorting competition);

(b) the Chapter 2 prohibition (within the meaning of that Act) (prohibition on abuse of a dominant position);

F94 (c) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F95 (d) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5) For the purpose of deciding under subsection (3) whether a person is unfit to be concerned in the management of a company the court—

(a) must have regard to whether subsection (6) applies to him;

(b) may have regard to his conduct as a director of a company in connection with any other breach of competition law;

(c) must not have regard to the matters mentioned in Schedule 1.

(6) This subsection applies to a person if as a director of the company—

(a) his conduct contributed to the breach of competition law mentioned in subsection (2);

(b) his conduct did not contribute to the breach but he had reasonable grounds to suspect that the conduct of the undertaking constituted the breach and he took no steps to prevent it;

(c) he did not know but ought to have known that the conduct of the undertaking constituted the breach.

(7) For the purposes of subsection (6)(a) it is immaterial whether the person knew that the conduct of the undertaking constituted the breach.

(8) For the purposes of subsection (4)(a) F96 ... references to the conduct of an undertaking are references to its conduct taken with the conduct of one or more other undertakings.

(9) The maximum period of disqualification under this section is 15 years.

(10) An application under this section for a disqualification order may be made by the [F97 Competition and Markets Authority] or by a specified regulator.

(11) [F98 Section 60A of the Competition Act 1998 (certain principles etc to be considered or applied from IP completion day)] applies in relation to any question arising by virtue of subsection (4)(a) or (b) above as it applies in relation to any question arising under Part 1 of that Act.

Textual Amendments

F93 Words in s. 9A(4) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Competition (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/93), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 1(2)(a) (with Sch. 4 para. 36) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1343, regs. 35-59); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F94 S. 9A(4)(c) omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Competition (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/93), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 1(2)(b) (with Sch. 4 para. 36) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1343, regs. 35-59); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F95 S. 9A(4)(d) omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Competition (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/93), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 1(2)(b) (with Sch. 4 para. 36) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1343, regs. 35-59); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F96 Words in s. 9A(8) omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Competition (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/93), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 1(3) (with Sch. 4 para. 36) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1343, regs. 35-59); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F97 Words in s. 9A(10) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 53(b) (with art. 3)

F98 Words in s. 9A(11) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Competition (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/93), reg. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 1(4) (as amended by The Competition (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1343), regs. 1(1), 13); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

9B Competition undertakings E+W+S

(1) This section applies if—

(a) the [F99 Competition and Markets Authority] or a specified regulator thinks that in relation to any person an undertaking which is a company of which he is a director has committed or is committing a breach of competition law,

(b) the [F99 Competition and Markets Authority] or the specified regulator thinks that the conduct of the person as a director makes him unfit to be concerned in the management of a company, and

(c) the person offers to give the [F99 Competition and Markets Authority] or the specified regulator (as the case may be) a disqualification undertaking.

(2) The [F99 Competition and Markets Authority] or the specified regulator (as the case may be) may accept a disqualification undertaking from the person instead of applying for or proceeding with an application for a disqualification order.

(3) A disqualification undertaking is an undertaking by a person that for the period specified in the undertaking he will not—

(a) be a director of a company;

(b) act as receiver of a company’s property;

(c) in any way, whether directly or indirectly, be concerned or take part in the promotion, formation or management of a company;

(d) act as an insolvency practitioner.

(4) But a disqualification undertaking may provide that a prohibition falling within subsection (3)(a) to (c) does not apply if the person obtains the leave of the court.

(5) The maximum period which may be specified in a disqualification undertaking is 15 years.

(6) If a disqualification undertaking is accepted from a person who is already subject to a disqualification undertaking under this Act or to a disqualification order the periods specified in those undertakings or the undertaking and the order (as the case may be) run concurrently.

(7) Subsections (4) to (8) of section 9A apply for the purposes of this section as they apply for the purposes of that section but in the application of subsection (5) of that section the reference to the court must be construed as a reference to the [F100 Competition and Markets Authority] or a specified regulator (as the case may be).

Textual Amendments

F99 Words in s. 9B(1)(2) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 53(c) (with art. 3)

F100 Words in s. 9B(7) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 53(c) (with art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

9C Competition investigations E+W+S

(1) If the [F101 Competition and Markets Authority] or a specified regulator has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a breach of competition law has occurred it or he (as the case may be) may carry out an investigation for the purpose of deciding whether to make an application under section 9A for a disqualification order.

(2) For the purposes of such an investigation sections 26 to 30 of the Competition Act 1998 (c. 41) apply to the [F101 Competition and Markets Authority] and the specified regulators as they apply to the [F101 Competition and Markets Authority] for the purposes of an investigation under section 25 of that Act.

(3) Subsection (4) applies if as a result of an investigation under this section the [F101 Competition and Markets Authority] or a specified regulator proposes to apply under section 9A for a disqualification order.

(4) Before making the application the [F101 Competition and Markets Authority] or regulator (as the case may be) must—

(a) give notice to the person likely to be affected by the application, and

(b) give that person an opportunity to make representations.

Textual Amendments

F101 Words in s. 9C(1)-(4) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 53(d) (with art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

9D Co-ordination E+W+S

(1) The Secretary of State may make regulations for the purpose of co-ordinating the performance of functions under sections 9A to 9C (relevant functions) which are exercisable concurrently by two or more persons.

(2) Section 54(5) to (7) of the Competition Act 1998 (c. 41) applies to regulations made under this section as it applies to regulations made under that section and for that purpose in that section—

(a) references to Part 1 functions must be read as references to relevant functions;

(b) references to a regulator must be read as references to a specified regulator;

[F102 (ba) the reference in subsection (6A)(b) to notice under section 31(1) of the Competition Act 1998 that the regulator proposes to make a decision within the meaning given by section 31(2) of that Act is to be read as notice under section 9C(4) that the specified regulator proposes to apply under section 9A for a disqualification order;]

(c) a competent person also includes any of the specified regulators.

(3) The power to make regulations under this section must be exercised by statutory instrument subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(4) Such a statutory instrument may—

(a) contain such incidental, supplemental, consequential and transitional provision as the Secretary of State thinks appropriate;

(b) make different provision for different cases.

Textual Amendments

F102 S. 9D(2)(ba) inserted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 54 (with art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

9E Interpretation E+W+S

(1) This section applies for the purposes of sections 9A to 9D.

(2) Each of the following is a specified regulator for the purposes of a breach of competition law in relation to a matter in respect of which he or it has a function—

[F103 (a) the Office of Communications;]

(b) the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority;

[F104 (c) the Water Services Regulation Authority;]

(d) [F105 Office of Rail and Road];

(e) the Civil Aviation Authority;

F106 (f) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F107 (g) the Payment Systems Regulator established under section 40 of the Financial Services (Banking Reform) Act 2013.]

[F108 (h) the Financial Conduct Authority.]

(3) The court is the High Court or (in Scotland) the Court of Session.

(4) Conduct includes omission.

(5) Director includes shadow director.]

Textual Amendments

F103 S. 9E(2)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 406(1), 411(2), Sch. 17 para. 83 (with transitional provisions in Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1

F104 S. 9E(2)(c) substituted (1.4.2006) by Water Act 2003 (c. 37), ss. 101(1), 105(3), Sch. 7 para. 25; S.I. 2005/2714, art. 4(f) (with Sch. para. 8)

F105 Words in s. 9E(2)(d) substituted (16.10.2015) by The Office of Rail Regulation (Change of Name) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1682), reg. 1(2), Sch. para. 4(h)

F106 S. 9E(2)(f) omitted (1.7.2022) by virtue of Health and Care Act 2022 (c. 31), s. 186(6), Sch. 12 para. 1; S.I. 2022/734, reg. 2(a), Sch. (with regs. 13, 29, 30)

F107 S. 9E(2)(g) inserted (1.4.2015) by Financial Services (Banking Reform) Act 2013 (c. 33), ss. 67(1), 148(5); S.I. 2014/2458, art. 3(b)(iii)

F108 S. 9E(2)(h) inserted (1.4.2015) by Financial Services (Banking Reform) Act 2013 (c. 33), s. 148(5), Sch. 8 para. 8; S.I. 2014/2458, art. 3(b)(v)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

Other cases of disqualification U.K.

10 Participation in wrongful trading. E+W+S

(1) Where the court makes a declaration under section 213 or 214 of the Insolvency Act [F109 1986] that a person is liable to make a contribution to a company’s assets, then, whether or not an application for such an order is made by any person, the court may, if it thinks fit, also make a disqualification order against the person to whom the declaration relates.

(2) The maximum period of disqualification under this section is 15 years.

[F110 (3) In this section “company” includes overseas company.]

Textual Amendments

F109 Words in s. 10(1) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(6)(a) (with art. 10)

F110 S. 10(3) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 11; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 Ss. 6-10 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

C33 Ss. 9, 10 extended (with modifications) by S.I. 1986/2142, art. 6

C34 Ss. 9, 10 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

C35 S. 10 applied (1.12.1994) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8

11 Undischarged bankrupts. E+W+S

[F111 (1) It is an offence for a person to act as director of a company or directly or indirectly to take part in or be concerned in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the leave of the court, at a time when any of the circumstances mentioned in subsection (2) apply to the person.

(2) The circumstances are—

(a) the person is an undischarged bankrupt—

(i) in England and Wales or Scotland, or

(ii) in Northern Ireland,

(b) a bankruptcy restrictions order or undertaking is in force in respect of the person under—

(i) the Bankruptcy (Scotland) Act 1985 [F112 or 2016] or the Insolvency Act 1986, or

(ii) the Insolvency (Northern Ireland) Order 1989,

(c) a debt relief restrictions order or undertaking is in force in respect of the person under—

(i) the Insolvency Act 1986, or

(ii) the Insolvency (Northern Ireland) Order 1989,

(d) a moratorium period under a debt relief order applies in relation to the person under—

(i) the Insolvency Act 1986, or

(ii) the Insolvency (Northern Ireland) Order 1989.

(2A) In subsection (1) “the court” means—

(a) for the purposes of subsection (2)(a)(i)—

[F113 (i) the court by which the bankruptcy order was made or (if the order was not made by a court) the court to which a debtor may appeal against a refusal to make a bankruptcy order, or]

(ii) in Scotland, the court by which sequestration of the person's estate was awarded or, if awarded other than by the court, the court which would have jurisdiction in respect of sequestration of the person's estate,

(b) for the purposes of subsection (2)(b)(i)—

(i) the court which made the order,

(ii) in Scotland, if the order has been made other than by the court, the court to which the person may appeal against the order, or

(iii) the court to which the person may make an application for annulment of the undertaking,

(c) for the purposes of subsection (2)(c)(i)—

(i) the court which made the order, or

(ii) the court to which the person may make an application for annulment of the undertaking,

(d) for the purposes of subsection (2)(d)(i), the court to which the person would make an application under section 251M(1) of the Insolvency Act 1986 (if the person were dissatisfied as mentioned there),

(e) for the purposes of paragraphs (a)(ii), (b)(ii), (c)(ii) and (d)(ii) of subsection (2), the High Court of Northern Ireland.]

(3) In England and Wales, the leave of the court shall not be given unless notice of intention to apply for it has been served on the official receiver; and it is the latter’s duty, if he is of opinion that it is contrary to the public interest that the application should be granted, to attend on the hearing of the application and oppose it.

[F114 (4) In this section “company” includes a company incorporated outside Great Britain that has an established place of business in Great Britain.]

Textual Amendments

F111 S. 11(1)-(2A) substituted for s. 11(1)(2) (1.10.2015) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 113(1), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(i) (with Sch. para. 11)

F112 Words in s. 11(2)(b)(i) inserted (30.11.2016) by The Bankruptcy (Scotland) Act 2016 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2016 (S.I. 2016/1034), art. 1, Sch. 1 para. 5

F113 S. 11(2A)(a)(i) substituted (6.4.2016) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Consequential Amendments) (Bankruptcy) and the Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/481), reg. 1, Sch. 1 para. 8

F114 S. 11(4) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(7) (with art. 10)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C36 Ss. 11, 12(2) extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

[F115 11A Designated persons under sanctions legislation U.K.

(1) It is an offence for a person who is subject to director disqualification sanctions to act as a director of a company or directly or indirectly to take part in or be concerned in the promotion, formation or management of a company (but see subsection (2)).

(2) Subsection (1) does not apply—

(a) to the extent that an exception from subsection (1) has been created by virtue of section 15(3A) of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018, or

(b) to anything done under the authority of a licence issued by virtue of section 15(3A) of that Act.

(3) It is a defence for a person charged with an offence under this section to prove that they did not know and could not reasonably have been expected to know that they were subject to director disqualification sanctions at the time at which they engaged in that conduct.

(4) In this section “person who is subject to director disqualification sanctions” means a person who under regulations under section 1 of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018 is a person subject to director disqualification sanctions for the purposes of this section and Article 15A of the Company Directors Disqualification (Northern Ireland) Order 2002 (see section 3A of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018).]

Textual Amendments

F115 S. 11A inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(2), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

12 Failure to pay under county court administration order. U.K.

(1) The following has effect where a court under section 429 of the Insolvency Act revokes an administration order under Part VI of the M4 County Courts Act 1984.

(2) A person to whom that section applies by virtue of the order under section 429(2)(b) shall not, except with the leave of the court which made the order, act as director or liquidator of, or directly or indirectly take part or be concerned in the promotion, formation or management of, a company.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C37 Ss. 11, 12(2) extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

Marginal Citations

M4 1984 c. 28.

[F116 12A Northern Irish disqualification orders. U.K.

A person subject to a disqualification order under [F117 the Company Directors Disqualification (Northern Ireland) Order 2002] [F118 or made by the High Court of Northern Ireland under section 8ZF or 8ZG]—

(a) shall not be a director of a company, act as receiver of a company’s property or in any way, whether directly or indirectly, be concerned or take part in the promotion, formation or management of a company unless (in each case) he has the leave of the High Court of Northern Ireland, and

(b) shall not act as an insolvency practitioner.]

Textual Amendments

F116 S. 12A inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 7(1); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F117 Words in s. 12A substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009) (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), {Sch. 1 para. 85(8))} (with art. 10)

F118 Words in s. 12A inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(5) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

[F119 12B Northern Irish disqualification undertakings U.K.

A person subject to a disqualification undertaking [F120 under section 8ZF or 8ZG so far as they extend to Northern Ireland or] under the Company Directors Disqualification (Northern Ireland) Order 2002–

(a) shall not be a director of a company, act as receiver of a company’s property or in any way, whether directly or indirectly, be concerned or take part in the promotion, formation or management of a company unless (in each case) he has the leave of the High Court of Northern Ireland, and

(b) shall not act as an insolvency practitioner.]

Textual Amendments

F119 S. 12B inserted (1.9.2004) by The Insolvency Act 2000 (Company Directors Disqualification Undertakings) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1941), art. 2(2) (with art. 1(2))

F120 Words in s. 12B inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(6) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

[F121 12C Determining unfitness etc: matters to be taken into account U.K.

(1) This section applies where a court must determine—

(a) whether a person's conduct as a director of one or more companies or overseas companies makes the person unfit to be concerned in the management of a company;

(b) whether to exercise any discretion it has to make a disqualification order under any of sections 2 to 4, 5A, 8 [F122 , 8ZG] or 10;

(c) where the court has decided to make a disqualification order under any of those sections or is required to make an order under section 6 [F123 or 8ZF], what the period of disqualification should be.

(2) But this section does not apply where the court in question is one mentioned in section 2(2)(b) or (c).

(3) This section also applies where the Secretary of State must determine—

(a) whether a person's conduct as a director of one or more companies or overseas companies makes the person unfit to be concerned in the management of a company;

(b) whether to exercise any discretion the Secretary of State has to accept a disqualification undertaking under section 5A, 7 or 8.

[F124 (3A) This section also applies where an officer of Revenue and Customs must determine—

(a) whether a person's conduct as a director of one or more companies or overseas companies makes the person unfit to be concerned in the management of a company;

(b) whether to exercise any discretion the officer has to accept a disqualification undertaking under section 8ZF or 8ZG.]

(4) In making any such determination in relation to a person, the court or the Secretary of State [F125 or the officer (as the case may be)] must—

(a) in every case, have regard in particular to the matters set out in paragraphs 1 to 4 of Schedule 1;

(b) in a case where the person concerned is or has been a director of a company or overseas company, also have regard in particular to the matters set out in paragraphs 5 to 7 of that Schedule.

(5) In this section “director” includes a shadow director.

(6) Subsection (1A) of section 6 applies for the purposes of this section as it applies for the purposes of that section.

(7) The Secretary of State may by order modify Schedule 1; and such an order may contain such transitional provision as may appear to the Secretary of State to be necessary or expedient.

(8) The power to make an order under this section is exercisable by statutory instrument.

(9) An order under this section may not be made unless a draft of the instrument containing it has been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, each House of Parliament.]

Textual Amendments

F121 S. 12C inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(5), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d)

F122 Word in s. 12C(1)(b) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(7)(a)(i) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F123 Words in s. 12C(1)(c) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(7)(a)(ii) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F124 S. 12C(3A) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(7)(b) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F125 Words in s. 12C(4) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(7)(c) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C38 S. 12C applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

Consequences of contravention E+W+S

13 Criminal penalties. E+W+S

—If a person acts in contravention of a disqualification order or [F126 disqualification undertaking or in contravention] of section 12(2) [F127 , 12A or 12B], or is guilty of an offence under section 11 [F128 or 11A], he is liable—

(a) on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for not more than 2 years or a fine, or both; and

(b) on summary conviction, to imprisonment for not more than 6 months or a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum, or both.

Textual Amendments

F126 Words in s. 13 inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 8(a)(b); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F127 Words in s. 13 substituted (1.9.2004) by The Insolvency Act 2000 (Company Directors Disqualification Undertakings) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1941), art. 2(3) (with art. 1(2))

F128 Words in s. 13 inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(3), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C39 Ss. 13-15C applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

14 Offences by body corporate. E+W+S

[F129 (1) Where—

(a) a body corporate is—

(i) guilty of an offence of acting in contravention of a disqualification order or disqualification undertaking or in contravention of section 12A or 12B, or

(ii) guilty of an offence under section 11A, and

(b) it is proved that the offence occurred with the consent or connivance of, or was attributable to any neglect on the part of any director, manager, secretary or other similar officer of the body corporate, or any person who was purporting to act in any such capacity,

the person, as well as the body corporate, is guilty of the offence and liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly.]

(2) Where the affairs of a body corporate are managed by its members, subsection (1) applies in relation to the acts and defaults of a member in connection with his functions of management as if he were a director of the body corporate.

Textual Amendments

F129 S. 14(1) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(4), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C39 Ss. 13-15C applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

15 Personal liability for company’s debts where person acts while disqualified. E+W+S

(1) A person is personally responsible for all the relevant debts of a company if at any time—

(a) in contravention of a disqualification order or [F130 disqualification undertaking or in contravention] of section 11 [F131 , 11A] [F132 , 12A or 12B] of this Act he is involved in the management of the company, F133 ...

[F134 (b) as a person who is involved in the management of the company, he acts or is willing to act on instructions given without the leave of the court by a person whom he knows at that time—

(i) to be the subject of a disqualification order made or disqualification undertaking accepted under this Act or under the Company Directors Disqualification (Northern Ireland) Order 2002, or

(ii) to be an undischarged bankrupt] [F135 , or

(c) as a person who is involved in the management of the company, they act or are willing to act on instructions where—

(i) the instructions are given by a person whom they know at that time to be subject to director disqualification sanctions (within the meaning of section 11A),

(ii) the giving of the instructions does not fall within any exception from section 11A(1) created by virtue of section 15(3A) of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018, and

(iii) the instructions are not authorised,

(but see subsection (3A)).]

(2) Where a person is personally responsible under this section for the relevant debts of a company, he is jointly and severally liable in respect of those debts with the company and any other person who, whether under this section or otherwise, is so liable.

(3) For the purposes of this section the relevant debts of a company are—

(a) in relation to a person who is personally responsible under paragraph (a) of subsection (1), such debts and other liabilities of the company as are incurred at a time when that person was involved in the management of the company, and

(b) in relation to a person who is personally responsible under paragraph (b) [F136 or (c)] of that subsection, such debts and other liabilities of the company as are incurred at a time when that person was acting or was willing to act on instructions given as mentioned in that paragraph.

[F137 (3A) But—

(a) a person who is subject to director disqualification sanctions (within the meaning of section 11A) is not personally responsible under subsection (1)(a) for any relevant debts of the company incurred at a time when the person did not know and could not reasonably have been expected to know that they were subject to director disqualification sanctions;

(b) a person is not personally responsible under subsection (1)(c) for any relevant debts of the company incurred at a time when the person reasonably believed that the instructions were authorised.]

(4) For the purposes of this section, a person is involved in the management of a company if he is a director of the company or if he is concerned, whether directly or indirectly, or takes part, in the management of the company.

[F138 (5) For the purposes of this section a person who, as a person involved in the management of a company, has at any time acted on instructions given without the leave of the court by a person whom he knew at that time—

(a) to be the subject of a disqualification order made or disqualification undertaking accepted under this Act or under the Company Directors Disqualification (Northern Ireland) Order 2002, or

(b) to be an undischarged bankrupt,

is presumed, unless the contrary is shown, to have been willing at any time thereafter to act on any instructions given by that person.]

[F139 (6) Subsection (7) applies where a person (“P”) at any time—

(a) was involved in the management of a company, and

(b) acted on instructions where—

(i) the instructions were given by a person (“D”) whom P knew at that time to be subject to director disqualification sanctions (within the meaning of section 11A),

(ii) the giving of the instructions did not fall within any exception from section 11A(1) created by virtue of section 15(3A) of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018, and

(iii) the instructions were not authorised,

unless P reasonably believed at that time that the instructions were authorised.

(7) For the purposes of this section P is presumed, unless the contrary is shown, to have been willing at any time thereafter to act on any instructions given by D.

(8) For the purposes of this section instructions are “authorised” if they are given under the authority of a licence issued by virtue of section 15(3A) of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018.]

Textual Amendments

F130 Words in s. 15(1)(a) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 10(2)(a); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F131 Word in s. 15(1)(a) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(5)(a), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

F132 Words in s. 15(1)(a) substituted (1.9.2004) by The Insolvency Act 2000 (Company Directors Disqualification Undertakings) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1941), art. 2(5)(a)(i) (with art. 1(2))

F133 Word in s. 15(1)(a) omitted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(5)(b), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

F134 S. 15(1)(b) substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(9)(a) (with art. 10)

F135 S. 15(1)(c) and word inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(5)(c), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

F136 Words in s. 15(3)(b) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(5)(d), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

F137 S. 15(3A) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(5)(e), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

F138 S. 15(5) substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(9)(b) (with art. 10)

F139 S. 15(6)-(8) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(5)(f), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C39 Ss. 13-15C applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

C40 S. 15 extended (with modifications) by S.I. 1986/2142, art. 6

C41 S. 15 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

C42 S. 15 applied (1.12.1994) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8

[F140 Compensation orders and undertakings E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F140 Ss. 15A-15C and cross-heading inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 110, 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(f) (with Sch. para. 4)

15A Compensation orders and undertakings E+W+S

(1) The court may make a compensation order against a person on the application of the Secretary of State if it is satisfied that the conditions mentioned in subsection (3) are met.

(2) If it appears to the Secretary of State that the conditions mentioned in subsection (3) are met in respect of a person who has offered to give the Secretary of State a compensation undertaking, the Secretary of State may accept the undertaking instead of applying, or proceeding with an application, for a compensation order.

(3) The conditions are that—

(a) the person is subject to a disqualification order or disqualification undertaking under this Act, and

(b) conduct for which the person is subject to the order or undertaking has caused loss to one or more creditors of an insolvent company [F141 , or a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent,] of which the person has at any time been a director.

(4) An “insolvent company” is a company that is or has been insolvent and a company becomes insolvent if—

(a) the company goes into liquidation at a time when its assets are insufficient for the payment of its debts and other liabilities and the expenses of the winding up,

(b) the company enters administration, or

(c) an administrative receiver of the company is appointed.

(5) The Secretary of State may apply for a compensation order at any time before the end of the period of two years beginning with the date on which the disqualification order referred to in paragraph (a) of subsection (3) was made, or the disqualification undertaking referred to in that paragraph was accepted.

(6) In the case of a person subject to a disqualification order under section 8ZA or 8ZD, or a disqualification undertaking under section 8ZC or 8ZE, the reference in subsection (3)(b) to conduct is a reference to the conduct of the main transgressor in relation to which the person has exercised the requisite amount of influence.

(7) In this section and sections 15B and 15C “the court” means—

(a) in a case where a disqualification order has been made, the court that made the order,

(b) in any other case, the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session.

Textual Amendments

F141 Words in s. 15A(3)(b) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(6), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C43 Ss. 13-15C applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

15B Amounts payable under compensation orders and undertakings E+W+S

(1) A compensation order is an order requiring the person against whom it is made to pay an amount specified in the order—

(a) to the Secretary of State for the benefit of—

(i) a creditor or creditors specified in the order;

(ii) a class or classes of creditor so specified;

(b) as a contribution to the assets of a company so specified.

(2) A compensation undertaking is an undertaking to pay an amount specified in the undertaking—

(a) to the Secretary of State for the benefit of—

(i) a creditor or creditors specified in the undertaking;

(ii) a class or classes of creditor so specified;

(b) as a contribution to the assets of a company so specified.

(3) When specifying an amount the court (in the case of an order) and the Secretary of State (in the case of an undertaking) must in particular have regard to—

(a) the amount of the loss caused;

(b) the nature of the conduct mentioned in section 15A(3)(b);

(c) whether the person has made any other financial contribution in recompense for the conduct (whether under a statutory provision or otherwise).

(4) An amount payable by virtue of subsection (2) under a compensation undertaking is recoverable as if payable under a court order.

(5) An amount payable under a compensation order or compensation undertaking is provable as a bankruptcy debt.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C44 Ss. 13-15C applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

15C Variation and revocation of compensation undertakings E+W+S

(1) The court may, on the application of a person who is subject to a compensation undertaking—

(a) reduce the amount payable under the undertaking, or

(b) provide for the undertaking not to have effect.

(2) On the hearing of an application under subsection (1), the Secretary of State must appear and call the attention of the court to any matters which the Secretary of State considers relevant, and may give evidence or call witnesses.]

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C45 Ss. 13-15C applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

Supplementary provisions U.K.

16 Application for disqualification order. U.K.

(1) A person intending to apply for the making of a disqualification order F142 ... shall give not less than 10 days’ notice of his intention to the person against whom the order is sought; and on the hearing of the application the last-mentioned person may appear and himself give evidence or call witnesses.

(2) An application to a court[F143 , other than a court mentioned in section 2(2)(b) or (c),] for the making against any person of a disqualification order under any of sections 2 to [F144 4] may be made by the Secretary of State or the official receiver, or by the liquidator or any past or present member or creditor of any company [F145 or overseas company] in relation to which that person has committed or is alleged to have committed an offence or other default.

(3) On the hearing of any application under this Act made by [F146 a person falling within subsection (4)], the applicant shall appear and call the attention of the court to any matters which seem to him to be relevant, and may himself give evidence or call witnesses.

[F147 (4) The following fall within this subsection—

(a) the Secretary of State;

(b) the official receiver;

[F148 (ba) an officer of Revenue and Customs;]

(c) the [F149 Competition and Markets Authority];

(d) the liquidator;

(e) a specified regulator (within the meaning of section 9E).]

Textual Amendments

F142 Words in s. 16(1) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 12(2); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F143 Words in s. 16(2) substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 12(3)(a); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F144 Figure in s. 16(2) substituted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 11(1); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3

F145 Words in s. 16(2) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 12(3)(b); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F146 Words in s. 16(3) substituted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(6), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F147 S. 16(4) inserted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(7), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F148 S. 16(4)(ba) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(8) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F149 Words in s. 16(4)(c) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 53(e) (with art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C46 Ss. 16, 17 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

[F150 17 Application for leave under an order or undertaking. U.K.

(1) Where a person is subject to a disqualification order made by a court having jurisdiction to wind up companies, any application for leave for the purposes of section 1(1)(a) shall be made to that court.

(2) Where—

(a) a person is subject to a disqualification order made under section 2 by a court other than a court having jurisdiction to wind up companies, or

(b) a person is subject to a disqualification order made under section 5,

any application for leave for the purposes of section 1(1)(a) shall be made to any court which, when the order was made, had jurisdiction to wind up the company (or, if there is more than one such company, any of the companies) to which the offence (or any of the offences) in question related.

(3) Where a person is subject to a disqualification undertaking accepted at any time under section [F151 5A,] 7 or 8, any application for leave for the purposes of section 1A(1)(a) shall be made to any court to which, if the Secretary of State had applied for a disqualification order under the section in question at that time, his application could have been made.

[F152 (3ZA) Where a person is subject to a disqualification undertaking accepted at any time under section 8ZC, any application for leave for the purposes of section 1A(1)(a) must be made to any court to which, if the Secretary of State had applied for a disqualification order under section 8ZA at that time, that application could have been made.

(3ZB) Where a person is subject to a disqualification undertaking accepted at any time under section 8ZE, any application for leave for the purposes of section 1A(1)(a) must be made to the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session.]

[F153 (3ZC) Where a person is subject to a disqualification undertaking accepted at any time under section 8ZF or 8ZG, any application for leave for the purposes of section 1A(1)(a) must be made to any court to which, if an officer of Revenue and Customs had applied for a disqualification order under the section in question at that time, the application could have been made.]

[F154 (3A) Where a person is subject to a disqualification undertaking accepted at any time under section 9B any application for leave for the purposes of section 9B(4) must be made to the High Court or (in Scotland) the Court of Session.]

(4) But where a person is subject to two or more disqualification orders or undertakings (or to one or more disqualification orders and to one or more disqualification undertakings), any application for leave for the purposes of section 1(1)(a) [F155 1A(1)(a) or 9B(4)] shall be made to any court to which any such application relating to the latest order to be made, or undertaking to be accepted, could be made.

(5) On the hearing of an application for leave for the purposes of section 1(1)(a) or 1A(1)(a), the Secretary of State shall appear and call the attention of the court to any matters which seem to him to be relevant, and may himself give evidence or call witnesses.

[F156 (5A) Subsection (5) does not apply to an application for leave—

(a) for the purposes of section 1(1)(a) if the application for the disqualification order was made by an officer of Revenue and Customs, or

(b) for the purposes of section 1A(1)(a) if the disqualification undertaking was accepted by an officer of Revenue and Customs.

(5B) In such a case, on the hearing of the application an officer of Revenue and Customs—

(a) must appear and call the attention of the court to any matters which appear to the officer to be relevant;

(b) may give evidence or call witnesses.]

[F157 (6) Subsection (5) does not apply to an application for leave for the purposes of section 1(1)(a) if the application for the disqualification order was made under section 9A.

(7) In such a case and in the case of an application for leave for the purposes of section 9B(4) on the hearing of the application whichever of the [F158 Competition and Markets Authority] or a specified regulator (within the meaning of section 9E) applied for the order or accepted the undertaking (as the case may be)—

(a) must appear and draw the attention of the court to any matters which appear to it or him (as the case may be) to be relevant;

(b) may give evidence or call witnesses.]]

Textual Amendments

F150 S. 17 substituted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 12(1); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3

F151 Word in s. 17(3) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 13(2); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F152 S. 17(3ZA)(3ZB) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 13(3); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F153 S. 17(3ZC) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(9)(a) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F154 S. 17(3A) inserted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(8), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F155 Words in s. 17(4) substituted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(9), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F156 S. 17(5A)(5B) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(9)(b) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F157 S. 17(6)(7) inserted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(10), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F158 Words in s. 17(7) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 53(f) (with art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C47 S. 17 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

18 [F159 Register of disqualification orders and undertakings.] U.K.

(1) The Secretary of State may make regulations requiring officers of courts to furnish him with such particulars as the regulations may specify of cases in which—

(a) a disqualification order is made, or

(b) any action is taken by a court in consequence of which such an order [F160 or a disqualification undertaking] is varied or ceases to be in force, or

(c) leave is granted by a court for a person subject to such an order to do any thing which otherwise the order prohibits him from doing; [F161 or

(d) leave is granted by a court for a person subject to such an undertaking to do anything which otherwise the undertaking prohibits him from doing]

and the regulations may specify the time within which, and the form and manner in which, such particulars are to be furnished.

(2) The Secretary of State shall, from the particulars so furnished, continue to maintain the register of orders, and of cases in which leave has been granted as mentioned in subsection (1)(c) F162 ....

[F163 (2A) The Secretary of State must include in the register such particulars as he considers appropriate of—

(a) disqualification undertakings accepted by him under section [F164 5A, 7, 8, 8ZC or 8ZE];

[F165 (aa) disqualification undertakings accepted by an officer of Revenue and Customs under section 8ZF or 8ZG;]

(b) disqualification undertakings accepted by the [F166 Competition and Markets Authority] or a specified regulator under section 9B;

(c) cases in which leave has been granted as mentioned in subsection (1)(d);]

[F167 (d) persons who are subject to director disqualification sanctions within the meaning of section 11A;

(e) any licences issued by virtue of section 15(3A) of the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018.]

(3) When an order [F168 or undertaking] of which entry is made in the register ceases to be in force, the Secretary of State shall delete the entry from the register and all particulars relating to it which have been furnished to him under this section or any previous corresponding provision [F168 and, in the case of a disqualification undertaking, any other particulars he has included in the register].

(4) The register shall be open to inspection on payment of such fee as may be specified by the Secretary of State in regulations.

[F169 (4A) Regulations under this section may extend the preceding provisions of this section, to such extent and with such modifications as may be specified in the regulations, to disqualification orders F170 ... [F171 or disqualification undertakings made under the Company Directors Disqualification (Northern Ireland) Order 2002].]

(5) Regulations under this section shall be made by statutory instrument subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

Textual Amendments

F159 S. 18 sidenote substituted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 13(6); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F160 Words in s. 18(1)(b) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 13(2)(a); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F161 S. 18(1)(d) and word inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 13(2)(b); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F162 Words in s. 18(2) omitted (1.10.2009) by virtue of The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(10)(a) (with art. 10)

F163 S. 18(2A) substituted (20.6.2003) by 2002 c. 40, ss. 204(11), 279; S.I. 2003/1397, art. 2, Sch.

F164 Words in s. 18(2A)(a) substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 14; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F165 S. 18(2A)(aa) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(10) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F166 Words in s. 18(2A)(b) substituted (1.4.2014) by The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 (Competition) (Consequential, Transitional and Saving Provisions) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/892), art. 1(1), Sch. 1 para. 53(g) (with art. 3)

F167 S. 18(2A)(d)(e) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(6), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

F168 Words in s. 18(3) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 13(4)(a)(b); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F169 S. 18(4A) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 13(5); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F170 Words in s. 18(4A) omitted (1.10.2009) by virtue of The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(10)(b) (with art. 10)

F171 Words in s. 18(4A) inserted (1.9.2004) by The Insolvency Act 2000 (Company Directors Disqualification Undertakings) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1941), art. 2(6) (with art. 1(2))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C48 S. 18(2) extended (6.4.2001) by S.I. 2001/967, regs. 5, 9(1)

C49 S. 18(2) extended (1.10.2009) by The Companies (Disqualification Orders) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/2471), reg. 9(1)

C50 S. 18(2A) extended (1.10.2009) by The Companies (Disqualification Orders) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/2471), reg. 9(2)

C51 S. 18(3) extended (1.10.2009) by The Companies (Disqualification Orders) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/2471), reg. 9(3)

19 Special savings from repealed enactments. U.K.

Schedule 2 to this Act has effect—

(a) in connection with certain transitional cases arising under sections 93 and 94 of the M5 Companies Act 1981, so as to limit the power to make a disqualification order, or to restrict the duration of an order, by reference to events occurring or things done before those sections came into force,

(b) to preserve orders made under section 28 of the Companies Act 1976 (repealed by the Act of 1981), and

(c) to preclude any applications for a disqualification order under section 6 or 8, where the relevant company went into liquidation before 28th April 1986.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C52 Ss. 19(c), 20 extended (with modifications) by S.I. 1986/2142, art. 6

C53 S. 19(c) applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

Marginal Citations

M5 1981 c. 62.

Miscellaneous and general U.K.

20 Admissibility in evidence of statements. U.K.

[F172 (1)] In any proceedings (whether or not under this Act), any statement made in pursuance of a requirement imposed by or under sections [F173 5A, 6 to 10, 12C, 15 to 15C] or 19(c) of, or Schedule 1 to, this Act, or by or under rules made for the purposes of this Act under the Insolvency Act [F174 1986] [F175 or under the 1989 Order], may be used in evidence against any person making or concurring in making the statement.

[F176 (2) However, in criminal proceedings in which any such person is charged with an offence to which this subsection applies—

(a) no evidence relating to the statement may be adduced, and

(b) no question relating to it may be asked,

by or on behalf of the prosecution, unless evidence relating to it is adduced, or a question relating to it is asked, in the proceedings by or on behalf of that person.

(3) Subsection (2) applies to any offence other than—

(a) an offence which is—

(i) created by rules made for the purposes of this Act under the Insolvency Act [F177 1986], and

(ii) designated for the purposes of this subsection by such rules or by regulations made by the Secretary of State;

(b) an offence which is—

(i) created by regulations made under any such rules, and

(ii) designated for the purposes of this subsection by such regulations;

(c) an offence under section 5 of the M6 Perjury Act 1911 (false statements made otherwise than on oath); F178 ...

(d) an offence under section 44(2) of the M7 Criminal Law (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 1995 (false statements made otherwise than on oath)[F179 ; or

(e) an offence under Article 10 of the Perjury (Northern Ireland) Order 1979 (S.I. 1979/1714 (N.I. 19)) (false statements made otherwise than on oath).]

(4) Regulations under subsection (3)(a)(ii) shall be made by statutory instrument and, after being made, shall be laid before each House of Parliament.]

[F180 (5) In subsection (1), “the 1989 Order” means the Insolvency (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (S.I. 1989/2405 (N.I. 19)).]

Textual Amendments

F172 S. 20 renumbered as s. 20(1) (E.W.) (14.4.2000) and (S.) (1.1.2001) by 1999 c. 23, ss. 59, Sch. 3 para. 8(2) (with s. 63(2), Sch. 7 paras. 3(3), 5(2)); S.I. 2000/1034, art. 2(a) and S.S.I. 2000/445, art. 2

F173 Words in s. 20(1) substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 15; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F174 Words in s. 20(1) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(6)(a) (with art. 10)

F175 Words in s. 20(1) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(11)(a) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F176 S. 20(2)-(4) inserted (E.W.) (14.4.2000) and (S.) (1.1.2001) by 1999 c. 23, ss. 59, Sch. 3 para. 8(1)(3) (with s. 63(2), Sch. 7 paras. 3(3), 5(2)); S.I. 2000/1034, art. 2(a) and S.S.I. 2000/445, art. 2

F177 Words in s. 20(3)(a)(i) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(6)(a) (with art. 10)

F178 Word in s. 20(3)(c) omitted (22.2.2024) by virtue of Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(11)(b)(i) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F179 S. 20(3)(e) and word inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(11)(b)(ii) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F180 S. 20(5) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(11)(c) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C54 Ss. 19(c), 20 extended (with modifications) by S.I. 1986/2142, art. 6

C55 S. 20 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

C56 S. 20 applied (1.12.1994) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8

C57 S. 20 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

Marginal Citations

M6 1911 c. 6.

M7 1995 c. 39.

[F181 20A Legal professional privilege U.K.

In proceedings against a person for an offence under this Act nothing in this Act is to be taken to require any person to disclose any information that he is entitled to refuse to disclose on grounds of legal professional privilege (in Scotland, confidentiality of communications).]

Textual Amendments

F181 S. 20A inserted (6.4.2008) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments etc) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/948), arts. 2(2), 3(1)(a), Sch. 1 para. 106(3) (with arts. 6, 11, 12)

21 Interaction with Insolvency Act [F182 1986] [F183 etc]. U.K.

(1) References in this Act to the official receiver, in relation to the winding up of a company or the bankruptcy of an individual, are to any person who, by virtue of section 399 of the Insolvency Act [F184 1986], is authorised to act as the official receiver in relation to that winding up or bankruptcy; and, in accordance with section 401(2) of that Act, references in this Act to an official receiver includes a person appointed as his deputy.

(2) Sections [F185 1A] [F186 5A, 6 to 10, 12C to 15C], 19(c) and 20 of, and Schedule 1 to, this Act [F185 and sections 1 and 17 of this Act as they apply for the purposes of those provisions] are deemed included in Parts I to VII of the Insolvency Act [F184 1986] for the purposes of the following sections of that Act—

• section 411 (power to make insolvency rules);

• section 414 (fees orders);

• section 420 (orders extending provisions about insolvent companies to insolvent partnerships);

• section 422 (modification of such provisions in their application to recognised banks); F187 . . .

(3) Section 434 of that Act (Crown application) applies to sections [F188 1A] [F186 5A, 6 to 10, 12C to 15C], 19(c) and 20 of, and Schedule 1 to, this Act [F188 and sections 1 and 17 of this Act as they apply for the purposes of those provisions] as it does to the provisions of that Act which are there mentioned.

[F189 (4) For the purposes of summary proceedings in Scotland, section 431 of that Act applies to summary proceedings for an offence under section 11 [F190 , 11A] or 13 of this Act as it applies to summary proceedings for an offence under Parts I to VII of the Act.]

[F191 (5) Sections 8ZF and 8ZG and the other provisions of this Act so far as relating to applications and orders made, and undertakings accepted, under those provisions in Northern Ireland, are deemed included in Parts 2 to 7 of the Insolvency (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (S.I. 1989/2405 (N.I. 19)) for the purposes of the following Articles of that Order—

• Article 359 (power to make insolvency rules);

• Article 361 (fees orders).]

Textual Amendments

F182 Words in s. 21 heading inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009) (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(6)(a) (with art. 10)

F183 Word in s. 21 heading inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(12)(a) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F184 Words in s. 21(1)(2) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(6)(a) (with art. 10)

F185 Words in s. 21(2) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 14(2)(a)(b)(c); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F186 Words in s. 21(2)(3) substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 16; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F187 Word repealed by Companies Act 1989 (c. 40, SIF 27), ss. 212, 213(2), Sch. 24

F188 Words in s. 21(3) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 14(3)(a)(b)(c); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F189 S. 21(4) added by Companies Act 1989 (c. 40, SIF 27), ss. 208, 213(2)

F190 Word in s. 21(4) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 36(7), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z)

F191 S. 21(5) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(12)(b) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

[F192 21A Bank insolvency U.K.

Section 121 of the Banking Act 2009 provides for this Act to apply in relation to bank insolvency as it applies in relation to liquidation.]

Textual Amendments

F192 S. 21A inserted (21.2.2009) by Banking Act 2009 (c. 1), ss. 121(4), 263(1) (with s. 247); S.I. 2009/296, art. 3, Sch. para. 2

[F193 21B Bank administration U.K.

Section 155 of the Banking Act 2009 provides for this Act to apply in relation to bank administration as it applies in relation to liquidation.]

Textual Amendments

F193 S. 21B inserted (21.2.2009) by Banking Act 2009 (c. 1), ss. 155(4), 263(1) (with s. 247); S.I. 2009/296, art. 3, Sch. para. 3

[F194 21C Building society insolvency and special administration U.K.

Section 90E of the Building Societies Act 1986 provides for this Act to apply in relation to building society insolvency and building society special administration as it applies in relation to liquidation.]

Textual Amendments

F194 S. 21C inserted (29.3.2009) by The Building Societies (Insolvency and Special Administration) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/805), art. 12

22 Interpretation. U.K.

(1) This section has effect with respect to the meaning of expressions used in this Act, and applies unless the context otherwise requires.

[F195 (2) “Company” means—

(a) a company registered under the Companies Act 2006 in Great Britain, or

(b) a company that may be wound up under Part 5 of the Insolvency Act 1986 (unregistered companies).]

[F196 (2A) An “overseas company” is a company incorporated or formed outside Great Britain.]

[F197 (2B) So far as this Act extends to Northern Ireland, subsections (2) and (2A) do not apply and instead—

• “company” means—

  (a)

  a company registered under the Companies Act 2006 in Northern Ireland, or

  (b)

  a company that may be wound up under Part 6 of the Insolvency (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (S.I. 1989/2405 (N.I. 19)) (unregistered companies), and

• “overseas company” means a company which is incorporated or formed outside Northern Ireland.]

(3) Section 247 in Part VII of the Insolvency Act [F198 1986](interpretation for the first Group of Parts of that Act) applies as regards references to a company’s insolvency and to its going into liquidation; and “administrative receiver” has the meaning given by section 251 of that Act [F199 and references to acting as an insolvency practitioner are to be read in accordance with section 388 of that Act].

(4) “Director” includes any person occupying the position of director, by whatever name called F200 . . ..

(5) “Shadow director”, in relation to a company, means a person in accordance with whose directions or instructions the directors of the company are accustomed to act [F201 , but so that a person is not deemed a shadow director by reason only that the directors act—

(a) on advice given by that person in a professional capacity;

(b) in accordance with instructions, a direction, guidance or advice given by that person in the exercise of a function conferred by or under an enactment;

(c) in accordance with guidance or advice given by that person in that person's capacity as a Minister of the Crown (within the meaning of the Ministers of the Crown Act 1975).]

[F202 (6) “Body corporate” and “officer” have the same meaning as in the Companies Acts (see section 1173(1) of the Companies Act 2006).]

[F203 (7) “The Companies Acts” has the meaning given by section 2(1) of the Companies Act 2006.]

[F204 (8) Any reference to provisions, or a particular provision, of the Companies Acts or the Insolvency Act 1986 includes the corresponding provisions or provision of corresponding earlier legislation.]

[F205 (9) Subject to the provisions of this section, expressions that are defined for the purposes of the Companies Acts [F206 (see section 1174 of, and Schedule 8 to, the Companies Act 2006)] have the same meaning in this Act.]

[F207 (10) Any reference to acting as receiver—

(a) includes acting as manager or as both receiver and manager, but

(b) does not include acting as administrative receiver;

and “receivership” is to be read accordingly.]

Textual Amendments

F195 S. 22(2) substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009) (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), {Sch. 1 para. 85(11)(a)} (with art. 10)

F196 S. 22(2A) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 17; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F197 S. 22(2B) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(13) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F198 Words in s. 22(3) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009) (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), {Sch. 1 para. 85(6)(a)} (with art. 10)

F199 Words in s. 22(3) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 15(2); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F200 Words in s. 22(4) repealed (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 8, 15(1), Sch. 4 Pt. I para. 15(3), Sch. 5; S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a)(c)(ii) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

F201 Words in s. 22(5) substituted (26.5.2015) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 90(2), 164(3)(g)(iii)

F202 S. 22(6) substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(11)(b) (with art. 10)

F203 S. 22(7) substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(11)(c) (with art. 10)

F204 S. 22(8) substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(11)(d) (with art. 10)

F205 S. 22(9) substituted (6.4.2008) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments etc) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/948), art. 3(1), Sch. 1 para. 106(4)(c) (with arts. 6, 11, 12)

F206 Words in s. 22(9) inserted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 85(11)(e) (with art. 10)

F207 S. 22(10) inserted (2.4.2001) by 2000 c. 39, s. 5(3); S.I. 2001/766, art. 2(1)(a) (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C58 S. 22 extended (with modifications) (1.7.1989) by S.I. 1989/638, regs. 20, 21

[F208 22A Application of Act to building societies. E+W+S

(1) This Act applies to building societies as it applies to companies.

(2) References in this Act to a company, or to a director or an officer of a company include, respectively, references to a building society within the meaning of the Building Societies Act 1986 or to a director or officer, within the meaning of that Act, of a building society.

(3) In relation to a building society the definition of “shadow director” in section 22(5) applies with the substitution of “building society” for “company”.

[F209 (3A) In relation to a building society, this Act applies as if—

(a) sections 6(1)(a)(ii) and (3)(d) [F210 , 7(2)(b) and 11A] were omitted;

(b) references in sections 7(4)(a), 8ZB(2) and 15A(3)(b) to a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent were omitted.]

F211 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

Textual Amendments

F208 S. 22A added by Companies Act 1989 (c. 40, SIF 27), s. 211(3)

F209 S. 22A(3A) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(7), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F210 Words in s. 22A(3A)(a) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 37(2), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z1)

F211 S. 22A(4) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 18; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

[F212 22B Application of Act to incorporated friendly societies. E+W+S

(1) This Act applies to incorporated friendly societies as it applies to companies.

(2) References in this Act to a company, or to a director or an officer of a company include, respectively, references to an incorporated friendly society within the meaning of the Friendly Societies Act 1992 or to a member of the committee of management or officer, within the meaning of that Act, of an incorporated friendly society.

(3) In relation to an incorporated friendly society every reference to a shadow director shall be omitted.

[F213 (3A) In relation to an incorporated friendly society, this Act applies as if sections [F214 —

(a) sections 6(1)(a)(ii) and (3)(d), 7(2)(b) [F215 , 8ZA to 8ZE and 11A] were omitted;

(b) references in sections 7(4)(a) and 15A(3)(b) to a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent were omitted.]]

F216 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

Textual Amendments

F212 S. 22B added (1.2.1993) by Friendly Societies Act 1992 (c. 40), ss. 120, Sch. 21 Pt. I para. 8 (with ss. 7(5), 93(4)); S.I. 1993/16, art. 2, Sch.3

F213 S. 22B(3A) inserted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 19(a); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F214 S. 22B(3A)(a)(b) substituted for words (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(8), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F215 Words in s. 22B(3A)(a) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 37(3), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z1)

F216 S. 22B(4) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 19(b); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

[F217 22C Application of Act to NHS foundation trusts E+W+S

(1) This Act applies to NHS foundation trusts as it applies to companies within the meaning of this Act.

(2) References in this Act to a company, or to a director or officer of a company, include, respectively, references to an NHS foundation trust or to a director or officer of the trust; but references to shadow directors are omitted.

[F218 (2A) In relation to an NHS foundation trust, this Act applies as if—

(a) sections 6(1)(a)(ii) and (3)(d) [F219 , 7(2)(b) and 11A] were omitted;

(b) references in sections 7(4)(a), 8ZB(2) and 15A(3)(b) to a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent were omitted.]

F220 (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

Textual Amendments

F217 S. 22C inserted (20.11.2003 for certain purposes and 1.4.2004 for E.W. otherwise) by Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003 (c. 43), ss. 34, 199, Sch. 4 para. 68; S.I. 2004/759, art. 2

F218 S. 22C(2A) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(9), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F219 Words in s. 22C(2A)(a) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 37(4), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z1)

F220 S. 22C(3) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 20; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F221 22D Application of Act to open-ended investment companies E+W+S

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F221 S. 22D omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 21; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

[F222 22E [F223 Application of Act to registered societies] E+W+S

[F224 (1) In this section “registered society” has the same meaning as in the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (“the 2014 Act”).]

(2) This Act applies to registered societies as it applies to companies.

(3) Accordingly, in this Act—

(a) references to a company include a registered society, and

(b) references to a director or an officer of a company include a member of the committee or an officer of a registered society.

In paragraph (b) “committee” and “officer” have the same meaning as in [F225 the 2014 Act: see section 149 of that Act].

(4) As they apply in relation to registered societies, the provisions of this Act have effect with the following modifications—

(a) in section 2(1) (disqualification on conviction of indictable offence), the reference to striking off includes cancellation of the registration of a society under [F226 the 2014 Act];

(b) in section 3 (disqualification for persistent breaches) and section 5 (disqualification on summary conviction), references to the companies legislation shall be read as references to the legislation relating to registered societies;

F227 (c) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(d) references to the registrar shall be read as references to the [F228 Financial Conduct Authority];

(e) references to a shadow director shall be disregarded

[F229 (f) sections 6(1)(a)(ii) and (3)(d), 7(2)(b) [F230 , 8ZA to 8ZE and 11A] are to be disregarded;

(g) references in sections 7(4)(a) and 15A(3)(b) to a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent are to be disregarded.]

F231 (5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F232 (6) The legislation relating to registered societies” means the Credit Unions Act 1979 and the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014.]]

Textual Amendments

F222 S. 22E inserted (6.4.2014) by Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies and Credit Unions Act 2010 (c. 7), ss. 3, 8(2); S.I. 2014/183, art. 2

F223 S. 22E heading substituted (1.8.2014) by Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (c. 14), s. 154, Sch. 4 para. 38(6) (with Sch. 5)

F224 S. 22E(1) substituted (1.8.2014) by Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (c. 14), s. 154, Sch. 4 para. 38(2) (with Sch. 5)

F225 Words in s. 22E(3) substituted (1.8.2014) by Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (c. 14), s. 154, Sch. 4 para. 38(3) (with Sch. 5)

F226 Words in s. 22E(4)(a) substituted (1.8.2014) by Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (c. 14), s. 154, Sch. 4 para. 38(4)(a) (with Sch. 5)

F227 S. 22E(4)(c) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 22(2)(a); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F228 Words in s. 22E(4)(d) substituted (1.4.2013) by The Financial Services Act 2012 (Mutual Societies) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/496), art. 1(1), Sch. 11 para. 3 (with Sch. 12)

F229 S. 22E(4)(f)(g) substituted for s. 22E(4)(f) (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(10), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F230 Words in s. 22E(4)(f) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 37(5), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z1)

F231 S. 22E(5) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 22(3); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

F232 S. 22E(6) substituted (1.8.2014) by Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (c. 14), s. 154, Sch. 4 para. 38(5) (with Sch. 5)

[F233 22F. Application of Act to charitable incorporated organisations E+W

(1) This Act applies to charitable incorporated organisations (“CIOs”) as it applies to companies.

(2) Accordingly, in this Act—

(a) references to a company are to be read as including references to a CIO;

(b) references to a director or an officer of a company are to be read as including references to a charity trustee of a CIO; and

(c) any reference to the Insolvency Act 1986 is to be read as including a reference to that Act as it applies to CIOs.

(3) As they apply in relation to CIOs, the provisions of this Act have effect with the following modifications—

(a) in section 2(1), the reference to striking off is to be read as including a reference to dissolution;

(b) in section 4(1)(a), the reference to an offence under section 993 of the Companies Act 2006 is to be read as including a reference to an offence under regulation 60 of the Charitable Incorporated Organisations (General) Regulations 2012(fraudulent trading);

[F234 (ba) sections 6(1)(a)(ii) and (3)(d) and 7(2)(b) are to be disregarded;

(bb) references in sections 7(4)(a), 8ZB(2) and 15A(3)(b) to a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent are to be disregarded;]

(c) sections 9A to 9E are to be disregarded;

(d) references to any of sections 9A to 9E are to be disregarded;

[F235 (da) section 11A is to be disregarded;]

(e) references to a shadow director are to be disregarded.

F236 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5) In this section “charity trustees” has the meaning given by section 177 of the Charities Act 2011.]

Textual Amendments

F233 S. 22F inserted (E.W.) (2.1.2013) by The Charitable Incorporated Organisations (Consequential Amendments) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/3014), arts. 1, 2

F234 S. 22F(3)(ba)(bb) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(11), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F235 S. 22F(3)(da) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 37(6), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z1)

F236 S. 22F(4) omitted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), s. 164(1), Sch. 7 para. 23; S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(g)

[F237 22G Application of Act to further education bodies U.K.

(1) This Act applies to further education bodies as it applies to companies.

(2) Accordingly, in this Act—

(a) references to a company are to be read as including references to a further education body;

(b) references to a director or an officer of a company are to be read as including references to a member of a further education body;

(c) any reference to the Insolvency Act 1986 is to be read as including a reference to that Act as it applies to further education bodies.

(3) As they apply in relation to further education bodies, the provisions of this Act have effect with the following modifications—

(a) in section 2(1), the reference to striking off is to be read as including a reference to dissolution;

[F238 (aa) sections 6(1)(a)(ii) and (3)(d) and 7(2)(b) are to be disregarded;

(ab) references in sections 7(4)(a), 8ZB(2) and 15A(3)(b) to a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent are to be disregarded;]

(b) sections 9A to 9E are to be disregarded;

(c) references to any of sections 9A to 9E are to be disregarded;

[F239 (d) section 11A is to be disregarded.]

(4) In this section—

• “further education body” means—

  (a)

  a further education corporation, or

  (b)

  a sixth form college corporation;

• “further education corporation” means a body corporate that—

  (a)

  is established under section 15 or 16 of the Further and Higher Education Act 1992, or

  (b)

  has become a further education corporation by virtue of section 33D or 47 of that Act;

• “sixth form college corporation” means a body corporate—

  (a)

  designated as a sixth form college corporation under section 33A or 33B of the Further and Higher Education Act 1992, or

  (b)

  established under section 33C of that Act.]

Textual Amendments

F237 S. 22G inserted (31.1.2019) by Technical and Further Education Act 2017 (c. 19), ss. 39, 47(2); S.I. 2018/1161, reg. 3(a)

F238 S. 22G(3)(aa)(ab) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(12), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F239 S. 22G(3)(d) inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 37(7), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z1)

[F240 22H. Application of Act to protected cell companies U.K.

(1) In this section—

(a) [F241 so far as this section extends to England and Wales and Scotland,] “protected cell company” means a protected cell company incorporated under Part 4 of the Risk Transformation Regulations 2017 which has its registered office in England and Wales (or Wales) or Scotland; and

[F242 (aa) so far as this section extends to Northern Ireland, “protected cell company” means a protected cell company incorporated under Part 4 of the Risk Transformation Regulations 2017 which has its registered office in Northern Ireland;]

(b) a reference to a part of a protected cell company is a reference to the core or a cell of the protected cell company (see regulations 42 and 43 of the Risk Transformation Regulations 2017).

(2) This Act applies to protected cell companies as it applies to companies.

(3) Accordingly, in this Act, references to a company are to be read as including references to a protected cell company.

(4) As they apply in relation to protected cell companies, the provisions of this Act have effect with the following modifications—

[F243 (za) sections 6(1)(a)(ii) and (3)(d) [F244 , 7(2)(b) and 11A] are to be disregarded;

(zb) references in sections 7(4)(a), 8ZB(2) and 15A(3)(b) to a company which has been dissolved without becoming insolvent are to be disregarded;]

(a) references to the administration, insolvency, liquidation or winding up of a company are to be read as references to the administration, insolvency, liquidation or winding up of a part of a protected cell company;

(b) references to striking off are to be read as including references to dissolution;

(c) references to a director of a company which is or has been insolvent are to be read as references to the director of a protected cell company, a part of which is or has been insolvent;

(d) references to a director of a company which is being or has been wound up are to be read as references to the director of a protected cell company, a part of which is being or has been wound up;

(e) references to the court with jurisdiction to wind up a company are to be read as references to the court with jurisdiction to wind up the parts of a protected cell company;

(f) references to the companies legislation are to be read as references to Part 4 of, and Schedules 1 to 3 to, the Risk Transformation Regulations 2017;

(g) references to the Insolvency Act 1986 are to be read as references to that Act as applied by Part 4 of, and Schedules 1 to 3 to, the Risk Transformation Regulations 2017;

(h) references to section 452 and 456 of the Companies Act 2006 are to be read as references to those sections as applied by regulation 163 of the Risk Transformation Regulations 2017;

(i) references to the registrar of companies are to be read as references to the Financial Conduct Authority; and

(j) [F245 so far as this section extends to England and Wales and Scotland,] references to an overseas company include references to a protected cell company incorporated under the Risk Transformation Regulations 2017 which has its registered office in Northern Ireland;

[F246 (k) so far as this section extends to Northern Ireland, references to an overseas company include references to a protected cell company incorporated under the Risk Transformation Regulations 2017 which has its registered office in England and Wales (or Wales) or Scotland.]

(5) Where two or more parts of a protected cell company are or have been insolvent, then sections 6 to 7A and 8ZA to 8ZC apply in relation to each part separately.

(6) A contribution to the assets of a protected cell company given in accordance with a compensation order under section 15A(1) or a compensation undertaking under section 15A(2) is to be held by the protected cell company on behalf of the part of the protected cell company specified in the order or undertaking.]

Textual Amendments

F240 S. 22H inserted (8.12.2017) by The Risk Transformation Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1212), reg. 1(2), Sch. 4 para. 3 (with reg. 189)

F241 Words in s. 22H(1)(a) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(14)(a) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F242 S. 22H(1)(aa) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(14)(b) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F243 S. 22H(4)(za)(zb) inserted (15.12.2021 for specified purposes, 15.2.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Rating (Coronavirus) and Directors Disqualification (Dissolved Companies) Act 2021 (c. 34), ss. 2(13), 4(4)(b)(5) (with s. 2(14))

F244 Words in s. 22H(4)(za) substituted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes, 4.3.2024 in so far as not already in force) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 37(8), 219(1)(2)(b); S.I. 2024/269, reg. 2(z1)

F245 Words in s. 22H(4)(j) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(14)(c) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

F246 S. 22H(4)(k) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(14)(d) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

[F247 22I Power to amend application of Act in relation to relevant entities U.K.

(1) The Secretary of State may by regulations amend this Act for the purpose of applying, or modifying the application of, any of its provisions in relation to relevant entities.

(2) For that purpose, the regulations may in particular—

(a) extend the company disqualification conditions to include corresponding conditions relating to a relevant entity;

(b) limit the company disqualification conditions to remove conditions relating to a relevant entity;

(c) modify which company disqualification conditions can, in combination with each other, result in a person being disqualified under this Act;

(d) provide for any of the company disqualification conditions to result in or contribute to a person being disqualified from acting in a role or doing something in relation to a relevant entity.

(3) In this section “the company disqualification conditions” means the conditions that can result in or contribute to a person being disqualified under this Act from acting in a role or doing something in relation to any entity.

(4) In this section a “relevant entity” means—

(a) a limited partnership registered under the Limited Partnerships Act 1907;

(b) a limited liability partnership registered under the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2000;

(c) a partnership, other than a limited partnership, that is—

(i) constituted under the law of Scotland, and

(ii) a qualifying partnership within the meaning given by regulation 3 of the Partnerships (Accounts) Regulations 2008.

(5) Regulations under this section may make—

(a) consequential, supplementary, incidental, transitional or saving provision;

(b) different provision for different purposes.

(6) The provision which may be made by virtue of subsection (5)(a) includes provision amending provision made by or under either of the following, whenever passed or made—

(a) an Act;

(b) Northern Ireland legislation.

(7) Regulations under this section are to be made by statutory instrument.

(8) A statutory instrument containing regulations under this section may not be made unless a draft of the instrument has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.]

Textual Amendments

F247 S. 22I inserted (26.10.2023 for specified purposes) by Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (c. 56), ss. 154, 219(1)(2)(b)

23 Transitional provisions, savings, repeals. U.K.

(1) The transitional provisions and savings in Schedule 3 to this Act have effect, and are without prejudice to anything in the M8 Interpretation Act 1978 with regard to the effect of repeals.

(2) The enactments specified in the second column of Schedule 4 to this Act are repealed to the extent specified in the third column of that Schedule.

Marginal Citations

M8 1978 c. 30.

24 Extent. U.K.

(1) This Act extends to England and Wales and to Scotland.

[F248 (2) Subsections (1) to (2A) of section 11 also extend to Northern Ireland.]

[F249 (3) For provision extending this Act (other than sections 13 to 15) to Northern Ireland so far as relating to applications and orders made, and undertakings accepted, under section 8ZF or 8ZG, see paragraph 4 of Schedule 13 to the Finance Act 2024.]

Textual Amendments

F248 S. 24(2) substituted (1.10.2015) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 113(2), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(i)

F249 S. 24(3) inserted (22.2.2024) by Finance Act 2024 (c. 3), Sch. 13 para. 2(15) (with Sch. 13 para. 4(2))

25 Commencement. U.K.

This Act comes into force simultaneously with the Insolvency Act 1986.

26 Citation. U.K.

This Act may be cited as the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986.

SCHEDULES

Section 12C

[F250 SCHEDULE 1 E+W+S Determining unfitness etc: matters to be taken into account

Textual Amendments

F250 Sch. 1 substituted (26.5.2015 for specified purposes, 1.10.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 (c. 26), ss. 106(6), 164(1); S.I. 2015/1329, reg. 3(c); S.I. 2015/1689, reg. 2(d) (with Sch. para. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C59 Sch. 1 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1994/2421, art. 16, Sch. 8 (as amended (E.W.) (8.12.2017) by The Insolvency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1119), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 paras. 4, 8)

Matters to be taken into account in all cases E+W+S

1 E+W+S The extent to which the person was responsible for the causes of any material contravention by a company or overseas company of any applicable legislative or other requirement.

2 E+W+S Where applicable, the extent to which the person was responsible for the causes of a company or overseas company becoming insolvent.

3 E+W+S The frequency of conduct of the person which falls within paragraph 1 or 2.

4 E+W+S The nature and extent of any loss or harm caused, or any potential loss or harm which could have been caused, by the person's conduct in relation to a company or overseas company.

Additional matters to be taken into account where person is or has been a director E+W+S

5 E+W+S Any misfeasance or breach of any fiduciary duty by the director in relation to a company or overseas company.

6 E+W+S Any material breach of any legislative or other obligation of the director which applies as a result of being a director of a company or overseas company.

7 E+W+S The frequency of conduct of the director which falls within paragraph 5 or 6.

Interpretation E+W+S

8 E+W+S Subsections (1A) to (2A) of section 6 apply for the purposes of this Schedule as they apply for the purposes of that section.

9 E+W+S In this Schedule “director” includes a shadow director.]

Section 19.

SCHEDULE 2 E+W+S Savings from Companies Act 1981 ss. 93, 94, and Insolvency Act 1985 Schedule 9

1 E+W+S Sections 2 and 4(1)(b) do not apply in relation to anything done before 15th June 1982 by a person in his capacity as liquidator of a company or as receiver or manager of a company’s property.

2 E+W+S Subject to paragraph 1—

(a) section 2 applies in a case where a person is convicted on indictment of an offence which he committed (and, in the case of a continuing offence, has ceased to commit) before 15th June 1982; but in such a case a disqualification order under that section shall not be made for a period in excess of 5 years;

(b) that section does not apply in a case where a person is convicted summarily—

(i) in England and Wales, if he had consented so to be tried before that date, or

(ii) in Scotland, if the summary proceedings commenced before that date.

3 E+W+S Subject to paragraph 1, section 4 applies in relation to an offence committed or other thing done before 15th June 1982; but a disqualification order made on the grounds of such an offence or other thing done shall not be made for a period in excess of 5 years.

4 E+W+S The powers of a court under section 5 are not exercisable in a case where a person is convicted of an offence which he committed (and, in the case of a continuing offence, had ceased to commit) before 15th June 1982.

5 E+W+S For purposes of section 3(1) and section 5, no account is to be taken of any offence which was committed, or any default order which was made, before 1st June 1977.

6 E+W+S An order made under section 28 of the M9 Companies Act 1976 has effect as if made under section 3 of this Act; and an application made before 15th June 1982 for such an order is to be treated as an application for an order under the section last mentioned.

Marginal Citations

M9 1976 c. 69.

7 E+W+S Where—

(a) an application is made for a disqualification order under section 6 of this Act by virtue of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of that section, and

(b) the company in question went into liquidation before 28th April 1986 (the coming into force of the provision replaced by section 6),

the court shall not make an order under that section unless it could have made a disqualification order under section 300 of [F251 the Companies Act 1985] as it had effect immediately before the date specified in sub-paragraph (b) above.

Textual Amendments

F251 Words in Sch. 2 para. 7 substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009) (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), {Sch. 1 para. 85(15)} (with art. 10)

8 E+W+S An application shall not be made under section 8 of this Act in relation to a report made or information or documents obtained before 28th April 1986.

Section 23(1).

SCHEDULE 3 E+W+S Transitional Provisions and Savings

1 E+W+S In this Schedule, “the former enactments” means so much of [F252 the Companies Act 1985], and so much of [F253 the Insolvency Act 1986], as is repealed and replaced by this Act; and “the appointed day” means the day on which this Act comes into force.

Textual Amendments

F252 Words in Sch. 3 para. 1 substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009) (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), {Sch. 1 para. 85(16)(a)} (with art. 10)

F253 Words in Sch. 3 para. 1 substituted (1.10.2009) by The Companies Act 2006 (Consequential Amendments, Transitional Provisions and Savings) Order 2009) (S.I. 2009/1941), art. 2(1), {Sch. 1 para. 85(16)(b)} (with art. 10)

2 E+W+S So far as anything done or treated as done under or for the purposes of any provision of the former enactments could have been done under or for the purposes of the corresponding provision of this Act, it is not invalidated by the repeal of that provision but has effect as if done under or for the purposes of the corresponding provision; and any order, regulation, rule or other instrument made or having effect under any provision of the former enactments shall, insofar as its effect is preserved by this paragraph, be treated for all purposes as made and having effect under the corresponding provision.

3 E+W+S Where any period of time specified in a provision of the former enactments is current immediately before the appointed day, this Act has effect as if the corresponding provision had been in force when the period began to run; and (without prejudice to the foregoing) any period of time so specified and current is deemed for the purposes of this Act—

(a) to run from the date or event from which it was running immediately before the appointed day, and

(b) to expire (subject to any provision of this Act for its extension) whenever it would have expired if this Act had not been passed;

and any rights, priorities, liabilities, reliefs, obligations, requirements, powers, duties or exemptions dependent on the beginning, duration or end of such a period as above mentioned shall be under this Act as they were or would have been under the former enactments.

4 E+W+S Where in any provision of this Act there is a reference to another such provision, and the first-mentioned provision operates, or is capable of operating, in relation to things done or omitted, or events occurring or not occurring, in the past (including in particular past acts of compliance with any enactment, failures of compliance, contraventions, offences and convictions of offences) the reference to the other provision is to be read as including a reference to the corresponding provision of the former enactments.

5 E+W+S Offences committed before the appointed day under any provision of the former enactments may, notwithstanding any repeal by this Act, be prosecuted and punished after that day as if this Act had not passed.

6 E+W+S A reference in any enactment, instrument or document (whether express or implied, and in whatever phraseology) to a provision of the former enactments (including the corresponding provision of any yet earlier enactment) is to be read, where necessary to retain for the enactment, instrument or document the same force and effect as it would have had but for the passing of this Act, as, or as including, a reference to the corresponding provision by which it is replaced in this Act.

Section 23(2).

SCHEDULE 4 E+W+S Repeals

Chapter	Short title	Extent of repeal
1985 c. 6.	The Companies Act 1985.	Sections 295 to 299.
		Section 301.
		Section 302.
		Schedule 12.
		In Schedule 24, the entries relating to sections 295(7) and 302(1).
1985 c. 65.	The Insolvency Act 1985.	Sections 12 to 14.
		Section 16.
		Section 18.
		Section 108(2).
		Schedule 2.
		In Schedule 6, paragraphs 1, 2, 7 and 14.
		In Schedule 9, paragraphs 2 and 3.