Technology Legislation

Regulations governing digital technology, cybersecurity, data protection, and technological innovation.

The Wireless Telegraphy (Mobile Spectrum Trading) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

The Wireless Telegraphy (Mobile Spectrum Trading) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective July 7, 2025, amend the 2011 regulations to include a new license class, 'Spectrum Access High Density,' and two new frequency bands (25100–27500 MHz and 40500–43500 MHz).

These changes aim to increase mobile spectrum availability, potentially boosting network capacity, promoting technological advancements, and fostering economic growth.

OFCOM followed due process before enacting these amendments, and a regulatory impact assessment is publicly available.

The Wireless Telegraphy (Limitation of Number of Licences) Order 2025

The Wireless Telegraphy (Limitation of Number of Licences) Order 2025, issued by OFCOM, limits the number of wireless telegraphy licenses granted for use in the 25.1 to 27.5 gigahertz and 40.5 to 43.5 gigahertz frequency bands.

OFCOM will use a defined procedure outlined in the Wireless Telegraphy (Licence Award) Regulations 2025 to determine the number of licenses and their recipients.

The order came into force on July 7, 2025, and does not apply to the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

The Private Intermittent Securities and Capital Exchange System (Exemption from Stamp Duties) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 12th Jun 25

These regulations, effective July 3rd, 2025, exempt stamp duties on PISCES share transfers occurring within a designated sandbox environment established under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023.

The regulations define key terms like "PISCES," "PISCES sandbox arrangements," and "PISCES share" by referencing the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023 (Private Intermittent Securities and Capital Exchange System Sandbox) Regulations 2025.

An accompanying explanatory note clarifies the exemption's purpose and directs readers to a Tax Information and Impact Note for further details.

The Investigatory Powers (Codes of Practice, Review of Notices and Technical Advisory Board) Regulations 2025

These regulations bring into force new and revised codes of practice under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016, clarifying procedures for bulk data access and communications interception.

They define "relevant change" regarding operator-system alterations requiring notification, specify review periods for notices, and amend the 2018 regulations governing the Technical Advisory Board, adjusting its membership and quorum requirements.

The Communications Act 2003 (Restrictions on the Advertising of Less Healthy Food) (Effective Date) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

These regulations amend the Communications Act 2003, delaying the implementation of restrictions on the advertising of less healthy food and drink.

The effective date is pushed back from October 1, 2025, to January 5, 2026.

The changes affect several sections of the Act, specifically those outlining the objectives for such advertisements and the prohibition of paid advertising for less healthy food and drink.

An explanatory note references a full impact assessment conducted previously, explaining the lack of a new assessment for this amendment.

The Transport Act 2000 (Air Traffic Services) (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Tue 3rd Jun 25

The Transport Act 2000 (Air Traffic Services) (Amendment) Order 2025, effective August 15, 2025, amends the definition of "air traffic services" in the Transport Act 2000 to include the process of developing and submitting airspace change proposals to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

This amendment applies to designated UK airspace and aims to streamline airspace management by providing clarity and supporting modernization initiatives.

The order follows a joint consultation on airspace modernization and leverages existing regulatory mechanisms while considering a potential de minimis cost impact on stakeholders.

The National Health Service (Charges, Remission of Charges and Pharmaceutical Services etc.) (Amendment and Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2025

The 2025 National Health Service regulations amend three existing sets of regulations: those concerning travel expenses and remission of charges, pharmaceutical and local pharmaceutical services, and charges for drugs and appliances.

Key changes include removing tax credit-based exemptions from charges, updating rules for distance-selling pharmacies, and introducing automated refunds for pre-payment certificates for those becoming eligible for exemptions.

The amendments aim to streamline processes, update services, and address policy shift related to the termination of tax credits.

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (Transfer of Functions etc) Act 2025 (Commencement) Regulations 2025

These regulations set the commencement dates for the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (Transfer of Functions etc) Act 2025.

Key provisions, including the transfer of the Institute's property, rights, and liabilities to the Secretary of State, come into effect the day after the regulations are made.

Further provisions, including the transfer of functions and the abolition of the Institute, take effect on June 1st, 2025, at 2:00 a.m.

The regulations aim to streamline governance and clarify responsibilities, but potential negative consequences such as increased bureaucracy or disruption to existing structures are possible.