Unlocking Whistleblower Protections: A New Dawn for Sanctions Enforcement

In a strategic move to bolster whistleblower protections, the UK government has introduced the Public Interest Disclosure (Prescribed Persons) (Amendment) Order 2025. This legislation aims to amend the existing Public Interest Disclosure (Prescribed Persons) Order 2014, allowing whistleblowers to safely report wrongdoing related to sanctions without fear of detriment or dismissal.

What’s New?

Under the revamped order, whistleblowers can now report issues related to transport, financial, and trade sanctions to key government figures—the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, the Secretary of State for Transport, and the Treasury. Previously, disclosures to these bodies did not guarantee employment protection under the Employment Rights Act 1996. The new amendment changes that, promoting transparency and encouraging more individuals to come forward with crucial information.

Why the Change?

Sanctions play a vital role in the UK’s regulatory framework, imposing restrictions on movements of goods, financial transactions, and transport operations. Non-compliance is a criminal offense, making it imperative to have reliable channels for reporting violations. By extending protections to whistleblowers in these areas, the government hopes to enhance the effectiveness of sanctions enforcement.

Impact on Businesses and Workers

The new legislation is designed to have minimal impact on businesses, with no additional regulatory burdens imposed. The main cost to businesses will be the time spent understanding the new provisions. Importantly, the order does not distinguish between large corporations and small or micro businesses, as sanctions apply universally.

Looking Ahead

While there was no formal consultation process for this amendment—deemed proportionate given the limited scope—the government will continue to monitor the effectiveness of these changes. Future internal reviews will ensure that the list of prescribed persons remains relevant and effective.

In summary, the Public Interest Disclosure (Prescribed Persons) (Amendment) Order 2025 marks a significant step in empowering workers to report on sanctions-related misconduct without fear, ultimately strengthening the UK's compliance and enforcement landscape.