What is the law on trade secrets in the United Kingdom?

In the United Kingdom, trade secrets are protected under the laws of confidence. These laws are based around the idea that certain information should be kept secret and kept private between two or more parties. This could include information such as manufacturing processes, formulas or recipes. The law in the UK is focused on ensuring that ‘confidential information’, which is any information which has commercial value because it is not generally known, is protected. The law of confidence states that an obligation of confidence arises when one person discloses information to another in circumstances where it is reasonable to expect that the information will remain confidential. In the UK, those who have access to trade secrets have a duty to keep it confidential. If someone discloses an unauthorised trade secret, the courts can impose civil or criminal penalties on them. This could include an order to pay compensation or damages to the individual or company who owns the trade secret. It is important to note that individuals and companies must take reasonable steps to protect their trade secrets, such as restricting access to the information and ensuring that those who have access sign a non-disclosure agreement. Individuals and companies who believe their trade secrets have been unlawfully revealed may be able to pursue a claim for damages. This is done by initiating court proceedings for breach of confidence.

Related FAQs

What types of information qualify as trade secrets?
What is the scope of trade secret protection in the United States?
Is it possible to protect trade secrets with a public disclosure?
What is the scope of trade secret protection in the European Union?
What is the Economic Espionage Act (EEA)?
What is the difference between a trade secret and a patent?
What is the law on trade secrets in the United Kingdom?
Are trade secrets protected in the European Union?
Can trade secrets be protected through contracts?
What type of information is not protected by trade secret law?

What is the law on trade secrets in the United Kingdom?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts