The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has posed significant issues for businesses. The UK government’s move to impose a nationwide lockdown will in particular have a major impact on the ability of many businesses to meet their contractual obligations.
Under English and Welsh Law, there are several key issues which are likely to arise in relation to contracts as a result of coronavirus. In this article we provide a summary of the various ways a commercial contract may be broken or suspended within the context of a pandemic. The areas covered include force majeure, frustration, acts of God, illegality, and insurance, as well as other relevant contractual provisions.
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