Law firm Barlow Lyde & Gilbert has slammed amendments to the combined code as set out in the Higgs report.

Barlows has warned that the new combined code could expand the potential liability of non-executive directors, rather than reduce them as Higgs intended.

The amendments, which offer guidance on the liability of non-executive directors, have been dismissed by Barlows partner Francis Kean as not "fully thought out" and "unsatisfactory".

Kean said the new combined code was irrelevant when assessing the extent of non-executive directors' duties to third parties.

"As a matter of general principle, it seems unsatisfactory to leave what are matters of substantive law to the interpretation of the meaning and effect of the combined code.

"It seems that there is an appreciable risk that, contrary to the result that Higgs appears to seek, the potential liability of non-executive directors might, in fact, be expanded as a result of his recommendations, rather than reduced."

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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