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Millington v Secretary of State for Environment Transport and Regions v Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council: CA 25 Jun 1999

The fact that a new product was made on agricultural land from produce grown elsewhere on the land did not make that production process non-agricultural. The making of wine is capable of being agricultural use, and being thus free from planning control. The court considered the Secretary of State’s reaction to the judges comments at … Continue reading Millington v Secretary of State for Environment Transport and Regions v Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council: CA 25 Jun 1999

Lawal v Northern Spirit Limited: HL 19 Jun 2003

Counsel appearing at the tribunal had previously sat as a judge with a tribunal member. The opposing party asserted bias in the tribunal. Held: The test in Gough should be restated in part so that the court must first ascertain all the circumstances which have a bearing on the suggestion that the judge was biased. … Continue reading Lawal v Northern Spirit Limited: HL 19 Jun 2003

In re Saul D Harrison and Sons plc: CA 1995

The ‘legitimate expectations’ of a party were a label for the ‘correlative right’ to which a relationship between company members may give rise when, on equitable principles, it would be regarded as unfair for a majority to exercise a power conferred upon them by the articles to the prejudice of another member. Depriving a shareholder … Continue reading In re Saul D Harrison and Sons plc: CA 1995

Crehan v Courage Limited and Byrne and Inntrepreneur Beer Supply Co Ltd and Langton v Inntrepreneur Beer Supply Co Ltd: CA 27 May 1999

The court considered the validity of beer ties affecting public houses. Judges: Lord Justice Schiemann Lord Justice Mance Lord Justice Morritt Citations: [1999] EWCA Civ 1501 Jurisdiction: England and Wales Citing: Appeal from – Courage Limited v Crehan ChD 25-Nov-1998 . . Cited – Thomas Witter v TBP Industries Ltd ChD 15-Jul-1994 An award of … Continue reading Crehan v Courage Limited and Byrne and Inntrepreneur Beer Supply Co Ltd and Langton v Inntrepreneur Beer Supply Co Ltd: CA 27 May 1999

Regina v Governor of Pentonville Prison, Ex parte Fernandez: Fernandez v Government of Singapore: HL 1971

Test for police protection need The court considered the degree of risk to an individual which should give rise to a duty on the police to protect him under article 2. Held: Lord Diplock said: ‘My Lords, bearing in mind the relative gravity of the consequences of the court’s expectation being falsified either in one … Continue reading Regina v Governor of Pentonville Prison, Ex parte Fernandez: Fernandez v Government of Singapore: HL 1971

Redrow Homes Ltd and others v Bett Brothers Plc and others: HL 22 Jan 1998

Additional damages under section 97 of the 1988 Act, can only be awarded with compensatory damages, not with a claim for damages under section 96. Citations: Times 26-Jan-1998, Gazette 11-Feb-1998, [1998] 1 All ER 385, [1998] UKHL 2, [1999] AC 197, [1998] 2 WLR 198 Links: House of Lords, Bailii Statutes: Copyright Designs and Patents … Continue reading Redrow Homes Ltd and others v Bett Brothers Plc and others: HL 22 Jan 1998

D’Silva v Lister House Development Ltd: 1970

Even an unlawful sub-tenancy can have protection under Part II of the 1954 Act. The court described as fallacious the submission that section 74(1) does not extend to or answer the question whether the document has ever been delivered, saying: ‘The section says that the document is to be deemed to have been duly executed … Continue reading D’Silva v Lister House Development Ltd: 1970

Oliver Ashworth (Holdings) Limited v Ballard (Kent) Limited: CA 18 Mar 1999

In order for the landlord to claim double rent where a tenant held over unlawfully after the tenancy was determined, the landlord must not do anything to indicate that the lease might be continuing, for example by denying the validity of break clause. In construing an Act, regard must be had to the whole of … Continue reading Oliver Ashworth (Holdings) Limited v Ballard (Kent) Limited: CA 18 Mar 1999

Sanctuary Housing Association v Campbell: CA 18 Mar 1999

The claimant had granted a secure weekly tenancy of a maisonette to Mrs Campbell, which she occupied with her husband and children. Mrs Campbell then left the maisonette, leaving the husband in occupation. The husband made a proposal to the claimant whose substance was that he should be given the tenancy of the maisonette, but … Continue reading Sanctuary Housing Association v Campbell: CA 18 Mar 1999

Suryananda, Regina (on the Application of) v The Welsh Ministers: Admn 16 Jul 2007

The claimants, trustees of a Hindu temple, sought judicial review of a decision that a bullock in their temple should be slaughtered having positively reacted to a test for bovine tuberculosis bacterium. They said that the animal posed no threat since it was isolated from other anmals and was sacrosanct to them. Held: The article … Continue reading Suryananda, Regina (on the Application of) v The Welsh Ministers: Admn 16 Jul 2007

Kelly v Northern Ireland Housing Executive; Loughran v Northern Ireland Housing Executive: HL 29 Jul 1998

Provisions against discrimination on religious grounds in Northern Ireland, could apply to appointment of a firm to a panel of experts, where one person was designated to carry out that work. ‘it is essential, for there to be ’employment,’ that the person making the contract shall himself undertake to do, at any rate, some of … Continue reading Kelly v Northern Ireland Housing Executive; Loughran v Northern Ireland Housing Executive: HL 29 Jul 1998

Ferrishurst Ltd v Wallcite Ltd: CA 30 Nov 1998

A person in actual occupation of registered land at time of transfer can enforce his rights against the transferee. A sub-underlessee in occupation of part could enforce an option to purchase against the freeholder acquiring intermediate registered title. Actual occupation of part of the land comprised in a registered disposition protected a right or interest … Continue reading Ferrishurst Ltd v Wallcite Ltd: CA 30 Nov 1998

Lloyds Bank Plc v Independent Insurance Co Ltd: CA 26 Nov 1998

The bank had made an electronic transfer of funds for a customer in satisfaction of that customer’s proper debt, but it was done under a mistake of fact as to the cleared status of funds received. Held: The appeal was turned down. The bank was not entitled to restitution of payment once made. Judges: Gibson … Continue reading Lloyds Bank Plc v Independent Insurance Co Ltd: CA 26 Nov 1998

Daventry District Council v Daventry and District Housing Ltd: CA 13 Oct 2011

The appellant challenged refusal of rectification of its agreement with the defendant. They asserted either mutual or unilateral mistake. The parties had agreed for the transfer of housing stock and management staff to the respondents. The claimant council sought rectification of a contract by which it transferred its housing stock and the staff employed in … Continue reading Daventry District Council v Daventry and District Housing Ltd: CA 13 Oct 2011

Reynolds v Times Newspapers Ltd and others: HL 28 Oct 1999

Fair Coment on Political Activities The defendant newspaper had published articles wrongly accusing the claimant, the former Prime Minister of Ireland of duplicity. The paper now appealed, saying that it should have had available to it a defence of qualified privilege because of the claimant’s status as a politician. Held: The appeal failed (Lords Hope … Continue reading Reynolds v Times Newspapers Ltd and others: HL 28 Oct 1999

Royal Brunei Airlines SDN BHD v Tan: PC 24 May 1995

(Brunei) The defendants were a one-man company, BLT, and the one man, Mr Tan. A dishonest third party to a breach of trust was liable to make good a resulting loss even though he had received no trust property. The test of knowledge was an objective one: ”knowingly’ was better avoided as a defining ingredient … Continue reading Royal Brunei Airlines SDN BHD v Tan: PC 24 May 1995

Sheldrake v Director of Public Prosecutions; Attorney General’s Reference No 4 of 2002: HL 14 Oct 2004

Appeals were brought complaining as to the apparent reversal of the burden of proof in road traffic cases and in cases under the Terrorism Acts. Was a legal or an evidential burden placed on a defendant? Held: Lord Bingham of Cornhill said: ‘The overriding concern is that a trial should be fair, and the presumption … Continue reading Sheldrake v Director of Public Prosecutions; Attorney General’s Reference No 4 of 2002: HL 14 Oct 2004

Edwards, Regina (on the application of) v Environment Agency: HL 16 Apr 2008

The applicants sought to challenge the grant of a permit by the defendant to a company to operate a cement works, saying that the environmental impact assessment was inadequate. Held: The Agency had been justified in allowing the application in the form presented. Nor had there been inadeqate disclosure. Everything which was required to be … Continue reading Edwards, Regina (on the application of) v Environment Agency: HL 16 Apr 2008

Gafford v A H Graham and Grandco Securities Limited: CA 8 Apr 1998

A land owner who was aware of his rights under a restrictive covenant, and who stood by whilst a riding school was erected in breach of the covenant, was not later to be allowed injunctive mandatory relief to enforce the covenant, by virtue of his acquiescence. The measure of damages questions involved in such cases … Continue reading Gafford v A H Graham and Grandco Securities Limited: CA 8 Apr 1998

Varsani and others v Jesani, Patel and Her Majesty’s Attorney-General: CA 3 Apr 1998

A Hindu religious sect, constituted as a charity, had split into two factions. Held: The court had jurisdiction to order that the assets of the sect should be divided under the powers in the Act, and held upon separate trusts for the two factions. The court declined to adjudicate as to which group was correctly … Continue reading Varsani and others v Jesani, Patel and Her Majesty’s Attorney-General: CA 3 Apr 1998

Salem v Secretary of State for Home Department: CA 6 Mar 1998

The Secretary of State having decided against an application for asylum could direct non-payment of benefits although he would hear representations. Held: Regulation 70(3A)(b)(i) defines a date by reference to the recording by the Secretary of State of the claim for asylum as having been determined. There is no reference to notification. The reference to … Continue reading Salem v Secretary of State for Home Department: CA 6 Mar 1998

Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department, Ex Parte Salem: HL 3 Mar 1999

The House of Lords has the power to hear a case where the parties have in effect settled and there remains no lis at issue, but the House will not hear such an academic case where no general issue of importance is at stake, or the facts are particular. There must be a good reason … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for the Home Department, Ex Parte Salem: HL 3 Mar 1999

Asda Stores Ltd v Thompson, Pullan, and Caller: EAT 16 Jun 2003

The appellants had been dismissed after investigations satisfied the employer that the employees had been using illegal drugs. Cross appeals were made in the following misconduct unfair dismissal claim. The employees complained of the use of anonymous witnesses. The employer had successfully appealed against an order for disclosure of all the statements taken. Held: Burton … Continue reading Asda Stores Ltd v Thompson, Pullan, and Caller: EAT 16 Jun 2003

Pearce v Ove Arup Partnership Ltd and others: CA 21 Jan 1999

An English court does not have to refuse an application which sought to apply a foreign copyright law in a claim based on acts committed abroad on the basis that not actionable here. Such restrictions applicable to land actions only: ‘It is, we think, clear from an analysis of the judgments in the Mocambique case … Continue reading Pearce v Ove Arup Partnership Ltd and others: CA 21 Jan 1999

Andrews and Another v Brewer and Another: CA 17 Feb 1997

Tenants challenged an order for possession, saying the form of notice was defective. The date specified in the notice was clearly a clerical error. It provided that the tenancy would commence on 29 May 1993 and end on 28 May 1993, on the face of it, a day before its commencement. The premises had previously … Continue reading Andrews and Another v Brewer and Another: CA 17 Feb 1997

Sarrio Sa v Kuwait Investment Authority: HL 17 Nov 1997

The parties were spanish companies. They were involved in proceedings against each other in Spain. The respondent had begun an action here for negligent misrepresentation against the appellant. The appellant argued that given the Spanish proceedings, the English court did not have jurisdiction because of article 22. Held: If the actions were related then the … Continue reading Sarrio Sa v Kuwait Investment Authority: HL 17 Nov 1997

Browne v The Queen: PC 6 May 1999

(St Christopher and Nevis) The appellant had been convicted of murder whilst still a youth. He had accordingly been sentenced to be detained ‘during [the Governor-General’s] pleasure; and if so sentenced he shall be liable to be detained in such place and under such conditions as the Administrator in Council may direct and, while so … Continue reading Browne v The Queen: PC 6 May 1999

Whittington Hospital NHS Trust v XX: SC 1 Apr 2020

A negligent delay in the diagnosis of her cancer left the clamant dependent on paid for surrogacy arrangements. Three issues were raised; could damages to fund surrogacy arrangements using the claimant’s own eggs be recovered? Second, if so, could damages to fund arrangements using donor eggs be recovered? Third, in either event, could damages to … Continue reading Whittington Hospital NHS Trust v XX: SC 1 Apr 2020

Rees v Darlington Memorial Hospital NHS Trust: HL 16 Oct 2003

The claimant was disabled, and sought sterilisation because she feared the additional difficulties she would face as a mother. The sterilisation failed. She sought damages. Held: The House having considered the issue in MacFarlane only recently it was inappropriate to change the rules set down in that case. Nothing had been put forward to argue … Continue reading Rees v Darlington Memorial Hospital NHS Trust: HL 16 Oct 2003

MacFarlane and Another v Tayside Health Board: HL 21 Oct 1999

Child born after vasectomy – Damages Limited Despite a vasectomy, Mr MacFarlane fathered a child, and he and his wife sought damages for the cost of care and otherwise of the child. He appealed a rejection of his claim. Held: The doctor undertakes a duty of care in regard to the prevention of pregnancy: it … Continue reading MacFarlane and Another v Tayside Health Board: HL 21 Oct 1999

Regina v Campbell: CACD 25 Oct 1996

The defendant appealed against his conviction for murder. At trial he had pleaded provocation, but not that he suffered abnormality of mind. Subsequent evidence of his state of mind led to this referral. The court now received fresh evidence to support a defence of diminished responsibility where the issue had not been raised at trial. … Continue reading Regina v Campbell: CACD 25 Oct 1996

Leeds City Council v Price and Others: CA 2 Feb 2012

The council had sought repossession of land occupied by the defendant gypsies. The council won its case and an order for costs in the House of Lords. The defendants had been legally aided, and the council had sought payment by the Community Legal Services Fund. Judges: Aikens, Tomplinson LJJ, Dame Janet Smith Citations: [2012] EWCA … Continue reading Leeds City Council v Price and Others: CA 2 Feb 2012

Coventry and Others v Lawrence and Another: SC 22 Jul 2015

The appellants challenged the compatibility with the European Convention on Human Rights of the system for recovery of costs in civil litigation in England and Wales following the passing of the Access to Justice Act 1999. The parties had been involved in very substantial litigation over an alleged nuisance. The claimants’ lawyers had acted under … Continue reading Coventry and Others v Lawrence and Another: SC 22 Jul 2015

Dingley v Chief Constable of Strathclyde Police: HL 11 May 2000

The officer had been injured in an accident in a police van. He developed multiple sclerosis only a short time afterwards. The respondent denied that the accident caused the MS. Held: There is no proof of what causes MS, but it was common ground that trauma never causes the disease. The question was whether trauma … Continue reading Dingley v Chief Constable of Strathclyde Police: HL 11 May 2000

Greenfield, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: HL 16 Feb 2005

The appellant had been charged with and disciplined for a prison offence. He was refused legal assistance at his hearing, and it was accepted that the proceedings involved the determination of a criminal charge within the meaning of article 6 of the Convention, that the deputy controller was not an independent tribunal and that the … Continue reading Greenfield, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: HL 16 Feb 2005

Regina v Forbes (Anthony Leroy) (Attorney General’s Reference No 3 of 1999): HL 19 Dec 2000

The provisions of the Code of Practice regarding identification parades are mandatory and additional unwritten conditions are not to be inserted. Where there was an identification and the suspect challenged that identification, and consented to the parade, the parade must be held. There is nothing in the words of code of practice to allow police … Continue reading Regina v Forbes (Anthony Leroy) (Attorney General’s Reference No 3 of 1999): HL 19 Dec 2000

AVS v A NHS Foundation Trust and Another: CA 17 Jan 2011

The claimant contracted sporadic Creutzfeldt Jakob’s Disease disease. He executed a Lasting Power of Attorney in favour of his brother, expressing to him that he should do whatever was possible to protract his life. The brother now sought treatment accordingly, referring to an experimental treatment. He was given the treatment initially, but the hospital refused … Continue reading AVS v A NHS Foundation Trust and Another: CA 17 Jan 2011

Pothecary Witham Weld (A Firm) and Another v Bullimore and Another: EAT 29 Mar 2010

EAT VICTIMISATION DISCRIMINATION SEX DISCRIMINATION – Burden of Proof Ex-employee given unfavourable reference – Claim that terms of reference were partly on account of her having previously brought sex discrimination proceedings against employers – Claim decided by the Tribunal on basis of the ‘reverse burden of proof’ provisions of s. 63A of Sex Discrimination Act … Continue reading Pothecary Witham Weld (A Firm) and Another v Bullimore and Another: EAT 29 Mar 2010

Barry v Midland Bank Plc: HL 22 Jul 1999

The defendant implemented a voluntary retirement scheme under which benefits were calculated according to the period of service of the employee. The plaintiff claimed that the scheme discriminated against workers who had taken career breaks, and therefore against women. Held: A severance pay scheme, which calculated the amount payable according to length of service and … Continue reading Barry v Midland Bank Plc: HL 22 Jul 1999

Carmichael and Another v National Power Plc: HL 24 Jun 1999

Tour guides were engaged to act ‘on a casual as required basis’. The guides later claimed to be employees and therefore entitled by statute to a written statement of their terms of employment. Their case was that an exchange of correspondence between the parties in March 1989 constituted a contract, which was to be classified … Continue reading Carmichael and Another v National Power Plc: HL 24 Jun 1999

Lister and Others v Hesley Hall Ltd: HL 3 May 2001

A school board employed staff to manage a residential school for vulnerable children. The staff committed sexual abuse of the children. The school denied vicarious liability for the acts of the teachers. Held: ‘Vicarious liability is legal responsibility imposed on an employer, although he is himself free from blame, for a tort committed by his … Continue reading Lister and Others v Hesley Hall Ltd: HL 3 May 2001

Attorney-General v Guardian Newspapers Ltd (No 2) (‘Spycatcher’): HL 13 Oct 1988

Loss of Confidentiality Protection – public domain A retired secret service employee sought to publish his memoirs from Australia. The British government sought to restrain publication there, and the defendants sought to report those proceedings, which would involve publication of the allegations made. The AG sought to restrain those publications. Held: A duty of confidence … Continue reading Attorney-General v Guardian Newspapers Ltd (No 2) (‘Spycatcher’): HL 13 Oct 1988

Amin, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: HL 16 Oct 2003

Prisoner’s death – need for full public enquiry The deceased had been a young Asian prisoner. He was placed in a cell overnight with a prisoner known to be racist, extremely violent and mentally unstable. He was killed. The family sought an inquiry into the death. Held: There had been a police investigation and trial … Continue reading Amin, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: HL 16 Oct 2003

Walker v Northumberland County Council: QBD 16 Nov 1994

The plaintiff was a manager within the social services department. He suffered a mental breakdown in 1986, and had four months off work. His employers had refused to provide the increased support he requested. He had returned to work, but again, did not receive the staff or guidance to allow him to do the work … Continue reading Walker v Northumberland County Council: QBD 16 Nov 1994

Beaufort Developments (NI) Limited v Gilbert-Ash NI Limited and Others: HL 26 Feb 1998

The contractual ability given to an arbitrator under standard JCT terms did not oust the court from assessing and prejudging the acts of the architect under a building contract. As to the means for interpreting documents, Lord Hoffmann said: ‘I think, my Lords, that the argument from redundancy is seldom an entirely secure one. The … Continue reading Beaufort Developments (NI) Limited v Gilbert-Ash NI Limited and Others: HL 26 Feb 1998

Alfred Mcalpine Construction Limited v Panatown Limited: HL 17 Feb 2000

A main contractor who was building not on his own land, would only be free to claim damages from a sub-contractor for defects in the building where the actual owner of the land would not also have had a remedy. Here, the land owner was able to sue under a deed of covenant entered into … Continue reading Alfred Mcalpine Construction Limited v Panatown Limited: HL 17 Feb 2000

Commissioners of Customs and Excise v British Telecommunications Plc: HL 11 Feb 1999

The cost of the delivery of a quantity of new cars from the factory or depot to the purchaser is incidental and ancillary to the supply of the cars themselves, and the VAT on delivery charges was not reclaimable by the purchasing company as Input Tax. The sale of a car and the delivery to … Continue reading Commissioners of Customs and Excise v British Telecommunications Plc: HL 11 Feb 1999

Vehicle Inspectorate v Nuttall: HL 18 Mar 1999

An operator accused of permitting contraventions of the drivers hours need only be shown to have failed to take reasonable steps to prevent contraventions by his drivers. A willful failure to inspect tachograph charts can amount to prima facie evidence. Citations: Times 19-Mar-1999, Gazette 21-Apr-1999, [1999] 1 WLR 629, [1999] UKHL 14, [1999] 3 All … Continue reading Vehicle Inspectorate v Nuttall: HL 18 Mar 1999

Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales v Commissioners of Customs and Excise: HL 11 Mar 1999

Where a body regulated a profession by virtue of a statutory regime, the fees charged by that body to its members were not subject to VAT. Promoting and supervising professional standards is not an ‘economic activity’ within the meaning of the Act. Citations: Times 29-Mar-1999, Gazette 19-May-1999, [1999] UKHL 19; [1999] 2 All ER 449; … Continue reading Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales v Commissioners of Customs and Excise: HL 11 Mar 1999

Lord Gray’s Motion: HL 12 Nov 1999

(Committee for Privileges) The proposed House of Lords Bill which would have the effect of removing the right of Scottish hereditary Lords to sit in the House of Lords was not a breach of the Treaty of Union between England and Scotland. Such Lords were present to represent the nations as a whole, and not … Continue reading Lord Gray’s Motion: HL 12 Nov 1999

Generale Bank Nederland Nv (Formerly Credit Lyonnais Bank Nederland Nv) v Export Credits Guarantee Department: HL 19 Feb 1999

The wrong of the servant or agent for which the master or principal is liable is one committed in the case of a servant in the course of his employment, and in the case of an agent in the course of his authority. It is fundamental to the whole approach to vicarious liability that an … Continue reading Generale Bank Nederland Nv (Formerly Credit Lyonnais Bank Nederland Nv) v Export Credits Guarantee Department: HL 19 Feb 1999

Regina v North Yorkshire County Council, ex parte Brown and Another: HL 12 Feb 1999

When a mineral planning authority set conditions on the continued operation of a quarry which had been operating since pre-1947, that decision was a development consent, and it required to be supported by an environmental impact assessment, since it had significant environmental effects. The purpose of the Directive is ‘to ensure that planning permissions which … Continue reading Regina v North Yorkshire County Council, ex parte Brown and Another: HL 12 Feb 1999

In Re B (A Minor) (Adoption Order: Nationality): HL 11 Mar 1999

When considering adoption of a child the whole range of benefits flowing from the adoption including the benefits of British nationality were to be allowed for, but adoption could properly be refused where the intention was to benefit an adult. Citations: Times 15-Mar-1999, Gazette 08-Apr-1999, [1999] 2 WLR 714, [1999] UKHL 11, [1999] 2 All … Continue reading In Re B (A Minor) (Adoption Order: Nationality): HL 11 Mar 1999

Ram, Regina (on the Application Of) v Parole Board: Admn 12 Jan 2004

The claimant had won an action for damages against the respondent. He was however released on licence, and subsequently became unlawfully at large. The question was whether the damages continued to be payable to him. The defendant insisted that the sum could only be paid personally, which would allow his arrest. The legal aid provisions … Continue reading Ram, Regina (on the Application Of) v Parole Board: Admn 12 Jan 2004

Aneco Reinsurance Underwriting Limited (In Liquidation) (a Body Incorporate Under the Laws of Bermuda) v Johnson and Higgins Limited: HL 18 Oct 2001

Brokers contracted to obtain re-insurance of risks undertaken by the claimants. They negligently failed to obtain full cover. The question at issue was whether they were liable for the full loss, or whether their duty was limited to obtaining satisfactory excess of loss protection. Held: The appeal failed. The case of SAAMCo did not affect … Continue reading Aneco Reinsurance Underwriting Limited (In Liquidation) (a Body Incorporate Under the Laws of Bermuda) v Johnson and Higgins Limited: HL 18 Oct 2001

Norwich Union Life Insurance Society v Shopmoor Ltd: ChD 10 Apr 1997

The tenants had applied for a licence to assign the property. The landlords had prevaricated, and the judge found their delay unreasonable and that it amounted to an unreasonable withholding of consent. They now appealed. Held: The 1988 Act did not make clear that a tenant faced with a delay could nevertheless complete the assignment. … Continue reading Norwich Union Life Insurance Society v Shopmoor Ltd: ChD 10 Apr 1997

Sun Life Assurance Co of Canada v Jervis: HL 1944

The parties had disputed the terms of an insurance policy. The House considered whether it could hear the case once the dispute had been settled. Held: There was no remaining dispute for the House to settle. Viscount Simon LC said: ‘My Lords, in my opinion, the House should decline to hear this appeal on the … Continue reading Sun Life Assurance Co of Canada v Jervis: HL 1944

Go West Ltd v Spigarolo and Another: CA 31 Jan 2003

The tenant applied for a licence to assign the lease under section 1. The landlord refused consent, but the parties continued to negotiate. The tenant argued that the landlord’s continuation of negotiations showed the earlier counter-notice to have been an unreasonable refusal. Held: The letter of refusal brought to an end the landlord’s response. By … Continue reading Go West Ltd v Spigarolo and Another: CA 31 Jan 2003

McDonald v McDonald and Others: SC 15 Jun 2016

Her parents had bought a house and granted tenancies to their adult daughter (the appellant), who suffered a personality disorder. They became unable to repay the mortgage. Receivers were appointed but the appellant fell into arrears with the rent. The receivers began possession proceedings, and a possession order was made and confirmed. She appealed saying … Continue reading McDonald v McDonald and Others: SC 15 Jun 2016

Regina v Medicines Control Agency ex parte Smith and Nephew (Primecrown Ltd intervening): ChD 1999

The court considered liability to third partries under a cross-undertaking given to the court: ‘Whether the recoverable damage is that which is foreseeable by the plaintiff or that which is directly caused by the injunction is not in point. None of the differing views expressed in the cases go so far as to say that … Continue reading Regina v Medicines Control Agency ex parte Smith and Nephew (Primecrown Ltd intervening): ChD 1999

Jones, Kirker, Angel and Bond v 3M Healthcare Ltd, Ambitions Personnel (Nottinghamshire) Ltd, British Sugar Plc, New Possibilities NHS Trust and Hackney: EAT 11 Dec 2001

EAT Disability Discrimination – DisabilityNicholas Kirker was employed by British Sugar plc as a shift chemist until dismissed. He has very poor eyesight and is registered as fully blind. He claimed he had been discriminated against as a disabled person and unfairly dismissed. Both claims succeeded in the employment tribunal and were upheld by the … Continue reading Jones, Kirker, Angel and Bond v 3M Healthcare Ltd, Ambitions Personnel (Nottinghamshire) Ltd, British Sugar Plc, New Possibilities NHS Trust and Hackney: EAT 11 Dec 2001

Jules Rimet Cup Ltd v The Football Association Ltd.: ChD 18 Oct 2007

The parties disputed on preliminary issues the ownership of the rights in the trade mark ‘World Cup Willie’. The claimant had set out to register the mark, and the defendant gave notice of its intention to oppose. The claimant now alleged threat and unlawful interference in contractual relations. The defendant alleged copyright infringement in the … Continue reading Jules Rimet Cup Ltd v The Football Association Ltd.: ChD 18 Oct 2007

Secretary of State for Justice v Slee: EAT 19 Jul 2007

EAT Unfair Dismissal – Constructive dismissalMaternity Rights and Parental Leave – Sex discriminationThe Claimant was employed as a Magistrates’ Clerk and she brought successful claims to the Employment Tribunal that:(a) Ms Slee (‘the Claimant’) had been constructively unfairly dismissed by The Department for Constitutional Affairs (‘the Respondent’);(b) The Respondent had failed to offer to the … Continue reading Secretary of State for Justice v Slee: EAT 19 Jul 2007

Privacy International, Regina (on The Application of) v Investigatory Powers Tribunal and Others: SC 15 May 2019

The Court was asked whether the actions of the Investigatory Powers Tribunal were amenable to judicial review: ‘what if any material difference to the court’s approach is made by any differences in context or wording, and more particularly the inclusion, in the parenthesis to section 67(8), of a specific reference to decisions relating to ‘jurisdiction’?’ … Continue reading Privacy International, Regina (on The Application of) v Investigatory Powers Tribunal and Others: SC 15 May 2019

Regina v Ministry of Defence ex parte Smith; ex parte Grady: CA 3 Nov 1995

Four appellants challenged the policy of the ministry to discharge homosexuals from the armed services. Held: Where a measure affects fundamental rights or has profoundly intrusive effects, the courts will anxiously scrutinise the decision to introduce it.Sir Thomas Bingham MR said: ‘The court may not interfere with the exercise of an administrative discretion on substantive … Continue reading Regina v Ministry of Defence ex parte Smith; ex parte Grady: CA 3 Nov 1995

Kok Hoong v Leong Cheong Kweng Mines Ltd: PC 1964

A clear public policy underlying a statute (for instance, the need to protect vulnerable persons dealing with moneylenders or landlords) prevents an estoppel arising: ‘To ask whether the law that confronts the estoppel can be seen to represent a social policy to which the Court must give effect in the interests of the public generally … Continue reading Kok Hoong v Leong Cheong Kweng Mines Ltd: PC 1964

Hose Express Thurrock Ltd v Jacomb: EAT 31 Mar 2009

EAT DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION: Disability related discriminationThe Claimant who is a disabled man claimed that his former employer discriminated against him on grounds of disability and the claim succeeded in front of the Employment Tribunal. So in identifying the appropriate comparator, it applied the test in Clark v Novacold [1999] ICR 951 which was not followed … Continue reading Hose Express Thurrock Ltd v Jacomb: EAT 31 Mar 2009

Anderson v Stena Drilling Pte Ltd: EAT 17 Aug 2006

Eat The claimant came from Aberdeen. He had been employed by Ben Line Steamers and his employment was transferred, ultimately, to the respondents, a company registered in Singapore. The respondents were a subsidiary of a Swedish company. From a date in 1998 until his dismissal, the claimant worked as a storeman on a rig situated … Continue reading Anderson v Stena Drilling Pte Ltd: EAT 17 Aug 2006

Horton v Sadler and Another: HL 14 Jun 2006

The claimant had been injured in a road traffic accident for which the defendant was responsible in negligence. The defendant was not insured, and so a claim was to be made against the MIB. The plaintiff issued proceedings just before the expiry of the period, but failed to give first the requisite formal notice to … Continue reading Horton v Sadler and Another: HL 14 Jun 2006

Regina v Davis (Iain); Regina v Ellis, Regina v Gregory, Regina v Simms, Regina v Martin: CACD 19 May 2006

The several defendants complained at the use at their trials of evidence given anonymously. The perceived need for anonymity arose because, from intimidation, the witnesses would not be willing to give their evidence without it. Held: The anonymity ruling did not prevent proper investigation with the witnesses in open court of the essential elements of … Continue reading Regina v Davis (Iain); Regina v Ellis, Regina v Gregory, Regina v Simms, Regina v Martin: CACD 19 May 2006

Matthews and others v Kent and Medway Towns and Fire Authority and others: HL 1 Mar 2006

Retained or part-time firefighters sought parity of working conditions with full time firefighters. Held: The retained firefighters’ appeal succeeded (Lords Carswell and Mance dissenting). The test was whether the part-time and full time workers had substantially similar contract and did substantially similar work. What was meant by similarity in this case had to be tested … Continue reading Matthews and others v Kent and Medway Towns and Fire Authority and others: HL 1 Mar 2006

Al-Hasan, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: HL 16 Feb 2005

Prisoners were disciplined after refusing to be squat searched, saying that the procedure was humiliating and that there were no reasonable grounds to suspect them of any offence against prison discipline. The officer who had been involved in ordering the search was the one later who decided on their complaint that it was unlawful. Held: … Continue reading Al-Hasan, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: HL 16 Feb 2005

The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry v Jonkler and Another: ChD 10 Feb 2006

The applicant had given an undertaking to the court to secure discontinuance of company director disqualification procedings. He now sought a variation of the undertaking. Held: The claimant had given an undertaking, but in the light of new evidence proceedings against her her co-directors had been discontinued. A variation should be allowed only where some … Continue reading The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry v Jonkler and Another: ChD 10 Feb 2006

Regina v Soneji and Bullen: HL 21 Jul 2005

The defendants had had confiscation orders made against them. They had appealed on the basis that the orders were made more than six months after sentence. The prosecutor now appealed saying that the fact that the order were not timely did not invalidate them. Held: The appeal was allowed. The confiscation orders made by the … Continue reading Regina v Soneji and Bullen: HL 21 Jul 2005

Hoxha and Another v Secretary of State for the Home Department: HL 10 Mar 2005

The claimants sought to maintain their claims for asylum. They had fled persecution, but before their claims for asylum were determined conditions in their home country changed so that they could no longer be said to have a well founded fear of persecution. Held: The decision on the grant required the fear to remain well … Continue reading Hoxha and Another v Secretary of State for the Home Department: HL 10 Mar 2005

NCR Ltd v Riverland Portfolio No.1 Ltd: ChD 16 Jul 2004

The tenant complained that the landlord had unreasonably delayed approval of a proposed underletting. Held: The court had to bear in mind that the consent was to an underlease, and that therefore there was no privity between the landlord and the proposed sub-tenant. The tenant would remain liable for rent and repairs as before. The … Continue reading NCR Ltd v Riverland Portfolio No.1 Ltd: ChD 16 Jul 2004

PNM v Times Newspapers Ltd and Others: SC 19 Jul 2017

No anonymity for investigation suspect The claimant had been investigated on an allegation of historic sexual abuse. He had never been charged, but the investigation had continued with others being convicted in a high profile case. He appealed from refusal of orders restricting publication of his name and involvement in the inquiry. Held: (Kerr and … Continue reading PNM v Times Newspapers Ltd and Others: SC 19 Jul 2017

MacDonald v Advocate General for Scotland (Scotland); Pearce v Governing Body of Mayfield School: HL 19 Jun 2003

Three appeals raised issues about the way in which sex discrimination laws were to be applied for cases involving sexual orientation. Held: The court should start by asking what gave rise to the act complained of. In this case it was the sexual orientation of the first claimant. Discrimination for sexual orientation does not come … Continue reading MacDonald v Advocate General for Scotland (Scotland); Pearce v Governing Body of Mayfield School: HL 19 Jun 2003

Inntrepreneur Pub Company (CPC) and others v Crehan: HL 19 Jul 2006

The tenant had taken on pub leases with ties requiring him to buy beer from companies associated with the landlords. The European Commission had issued a decision and the House was asked whether this was binding on the parties. Held: Intrepreneur’s appeal was allowed. The Commission’s decision was not binding. Lord Bingham: ‘Community law prohibits … Continue reading Inntrepreneur Pub Company (CPC) and others v Crehan: HL 19 Jul 2006

Stergios Delimitis v Henninger Brau AG: ECJ 28 Feb 1991

ECJ A beer supply agreement is prohibited by Article 85(1) of the EEC Treaty if two cumulative conditions are met. The first is that, having regard to the economic and legal context of the agreement at issue, it is difficult for competitors who could enter the market or increase their market share to gain access … Continue reading Stergios Delimitis v Henninger Brau AG: ECJ 28 Feb 1991

Levene v Inland Revenue Commissioners: HL 1928

Until 1919 Mr. Levene had been both resident and ordinarily resident in the UK. Then, for five years he spent about five months (mainly in the summer) each year, staying in hotels in the UK and receiving medical attention or pursuing religious and social activities. He spent the remaining months staying in hotels abroad. The … Continue reading Levene v Inland Revenue Commissioners: HL 1928

Pla and Puncernau v Andorra: ECHR 13 Jul 2004

A will made by a widow in 1939, left certain property to her son Francesc-Xavier, as tenant for life, with a stipulation that he was to leave this inheritance to a son or grandson of a lawful and canonical marriage, failing which the estate was to pass to the children and grandchildren of the testatrix’s … Continue reading Pla and Puncernau v Andorra: ECHR 13 Jul 2004

Secretary of State for Trade and Industry v Frid: HL 13 May 2004

The company went into insolvent liquidation. The secretary of state was to make payments to employees and there were other state preferential creditors. At the same time a refund of VAT was due from the Commissioners of customs and Excise. Held: The sums paid out and preferential debts could be set off against the VAT … Continue reading Secretary of State for Trade and Industry v Frid: HL 13 May 2004

Smith (Wallace Duncan), Regina v (No 4): CACD 17 Mar 2004

The defendant appealed convictions for fraudulent trading and obtaining property by deception, saying that the English court could not prosecute an offence committed principally in the US. Held: Provided some substantial element (here the deception) took place within the UK, and provided there was no offence to international comity, the court here could hear such … Continue reading Smith (Wallace Duncan), Regina v (No 4): CACD 17 Mar 2004

Ealing Family Housing Association Ltd v McKenzie: CA 10 Oct 2003

The defendant and his wife separated when she left the flat they shared. She accepted a new tenancy of other premises. The landlord claimed possession of the flat, saying that the tenancy had ended. Held: There was no express surrender within the 1989 Act. The landlord claimed an implied surrender under the 1925 Act. That … Continue reading Ealing Family Housing Association Ltd v McKenzie: CA 10 Oct 2003

Niru Battery Manufacturing Company, Bank Sepah Iran v Milestone Trading Limited: CA 23 Oct 2003

The claimant had contracted to purchase lead from some of the defendants. There were delays in payment but when funds were made available they should have been repaid. An incorrect bill of lading was presented. The bill certified that the goods had been loaded, but they had not. Held: An inspector certifying the goods should … Continue reading Niru Battery Manufacturing Company, Bank Sepah Iran v Milestone Trading Limited: CA 23 Oct 2003

Official Receiver v Wadge Rapps and Hunt (a firm) and another and two other actions: HL 31 Jul 2003

(Orse In re Pantmaenog Timber Co Ltd)The Receiver sought to use information obtained under section 236 (documents recovered from the directors’ solicitors) in disqualification proceedings. Held: The appeal succeeded. The Act had explicitly given the requisite powers to the receiver whether or not he was the liquidator. Nor was the purpose of the use restricted. … Continue reading Official Receiver v Wadge Rapps and Hunt (a firm) and another and two other actions: HL 31 Jul 2003

Giles, Regina (on the Application of) v Parole Board and Another: HL 31 Jul 2003

The defendant had been sentenced for offences of violence, but an additional period was imposed to protect the public. He had been refused leave for reconsideration of that part of his sentence after he completed the normal segment of his sentence. He wanted a consideration which would parallel the new won rights of review for … Continue reading Giles, Regina (on the Application of) v Parole Board and Another: HL 31 Jul 2003

Regina (Director of Public Prosecutions) v Camplin: HL 1978

The court considered the direction to be given as to the existence of provocation so as to reduce a charge of murder to one of manslaughter. The reasonable man in the definition should be one with the defendant’s mental condition. ‘The judge should state what the question is using the very terms of the section. … Continue reading Regina (Director of Public Prosecutions) v Camplin: HL 1978

Connecticut Fire Insurance Co v Kavanagh: PC 1892

An appeal court must scrutinise most carefully an argument or point not taken at the trial and presented for the first time on appeal to ensure that injustice is not caused. ‘When a question of law is raised for the first time in a court of last resort, upon the construction of a document, or … Continue reading Connecticut Fire Insurance Co v Kavanagh: PC 1892

Hatton v Messrs Chafes (A Firm): CA 13 Mar 2003

The defendant firm appealed against a refusal to strike out the claimant’s claim for professional negligence, asserting that the judge should have considered the limitation issue in the light of Khan v Falvey. Held: By the time that the negligence arose, the first claim was worthless. The claimant knew of the negligence of his solicitors … Continue reading Hatton v Messrs Chafes (A Firm): CA 13 Mar 2003

Regina v Secretary of State for Environment Transport and the Regions ex parte O’Byrne: HL 14 Nov 2002

The applicant sought to exercise her right to buy a property she had occupied of her local authority. It was in the green belt, and the authority declined to sell it until they had obtained authorisation for the sale. The authority appealed an order requiring the sale. Held: The 1985 Act made no reference to … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for Environment Transport and the Regions ex parte O’Byrne: HL 14 Nov 2002

Gibson v Orr, the Chief Constable, Strathlclyde Police: SCS 26 Feb 1999

The pursuer and his passengers were injured when he drove off a bridge which had been damaged in a severe rainstorm. He claimed in negligence against the police, who had been informed of the collapse of the bridge, but had not erected any warning signs. As a result, a car fell into the river, killing … Continue reading Gibson v Orr, the Chief Constable, Strathlclyde Police: SCS 26 Feb 1999

Mason, Wood, McClelland, Tierney v Regina: CACD 13 Feb 2002

The appellants appealed their convictions on two grounds. First the judge who had heard the case was an acquaintance of the chief constable of the investigating force, and second evidence had been admitted of tape recordings of non-privileged conversations between defendants whilst in the police station. The Chief Constable had authorised the covert operation, and … Continue reading Mason, Wood, McClelland, Tierney v Regina: CACD 13 Feb 2002