Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992

10 Quasi-corporate status of trade unions

(1) A trade union is not a body corporate but—

(a) it is capable of making contracts;

(b) it is capable of suing and being sued in its own name, whether in proceedings relating to property or founded on contract or tort or any other cause of action; and

(c) proceedings for an offence alleged to have been committed by it or on its behalf may be brought against it in its own name.

(2) A trade union shall not be treated as if it were a body corporate except to the extent authorised by the provisions of this Part.

(3) A trade union shall not be registered—

(a) as a company under the [1985 c. 9.] Companies Act 1985, or

(b) under the [1974 c. 46.] Friendly Societies Act 1974 or the [1965 c. 12.] Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965;

and any such registration of a trade union (whenever effected) is void.