Second Review of the Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 and the Insolvency (Scotland) (Company Voluntary Arrangements and Administration) Rules 2018 – Public Consultation

The UK insolvency framework is well established and well regarded internationally. The Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016 and the Insolvency (Scotland) (Company Voluntary Arrangements and Administration) Rules 2018 ‘the Rules’ provide the detailed procedures for the conduct of insolvency proceedings, for example by setting out the duties of office-holders, creditor and debtor rights and obligations, the role of courts, the orderly collection and distribution of assets, and the timeframe to complete proceedings.

Section 1 of this consultation focuses on the statutory elements of the post-implementation review ‘PIR’. This includes whether the Rules remain fit for purpose, and whether there are opportunities to reduce administrative and regulatory burdens.

Section 2 considers a range of potential future changes to the Rules. The topics build on stakeholders’ responses from the first PIR in 2022, along with research and feedback received in the interim period. The government is not consulting on preferred options but seeking to gather a wide range of opinions and potential solutions that may improve the functioning of the Rules for the benefit of stakeholders. Consultation responses will help inform the government’s position on what change, if any, is needed.

Section 3 examines how to future-proof the Rules. It is a forward look to consider how the Rules might need to adapt to accommodate emerging issues to ensure continued effectiveness in a rapidly changing world. It covers advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, as well as digital assets and cryptocurrencies.

Online, on the department's own form.

By email to policy.rules.review@insolvency.gov.uk

Policy Team – Second Rules Review Insolvency Service Floor 16 1 Westfield Avenue, Stratford, London E20 1HZ

Responses close 6 October 2026.