In a significant ruling on disclosure (Aabar Holdings SARL v Glencore Plc), the Commercial Court has held that legal advice privilege can attach to certain internal documents and communications within a corporate “client group” even where no lawyer is copied in - provided the dominant purpose is for seeking legal advice.
The courts in England and Wales expect parties to consider settlement at all stages of proceedings and can penalise in costs any unreasonable refusal to mediate. A recent case considered whether the defendants’ approach was “unreasonable”, and offers valuable insight as to when a refusal to mediate may be penalised.
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has, today, published its final phase of the report to examine the circumstances leading up to and surrounding the fire at Grenfell Tower on the night of 14 June 2017. The report highlights significant deficiencies in the current building safety regulations and is likely to have a major impact on the construction industry, manufacturers and property owners.
