Companies Act 2006: Primary legislation governing corporate transactions, including share transfer provisions, corporate authority requirements, and filing obligations for business sales
Sale of Goods Act 1979: Regulates the transfer of business assets as part of the sale, defining rights and obligations regarding the transfer of goods and assets
Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (TUPE): Protects employees' rights during business transfers, ensuring continuation of employment terms and conditions
Employment Rights Act 1996: Defines fundamental employment rights and obligations that must be considered when transferring employees as part of the business sale
Value Added Tax Act 1994: Governs VAT implications of the business sale, including treatment of assets and transfer of going concern provisions
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR: Regulates the transfer of personal data, including customer and employee information, during business sales
Competition Act 1998: Controls merger and acquisition activities, particularly relevant for larger business sales that might affect market competition
Pensions Act 2004: Governs the transfer and protection of pension schemes and obligations in business sales
Property Law Act 1925: Regulates the transfer of real property assets when included in the business sale
Finance Act: Determines tax implications and obligations arising from the business sale, including capital gains and stamp duty considerations
FCA Regulations: Financial Conduct Authority regulations applicable to regulated businesses or financial services companies
Industry-Specific Regulations: Sector-specific regulatory requirements that must be considered depending on the nature of the business being sold
Competition and Markets Authority Requirements: Additional regulatory oversight for larger transactions that may require CMA approval or investigation
