On 31 July 2025, the Law Commission launched a review of the law relating to liability for defective products, the first of its kind since the Consumer Protection Act 1987. In 40 years, there have been significant changes to the world of product liability as technology has progressed, and the current regime is simply not adequate to deal with the current position.

Artificial intelligence, mass global supply chains operated by online marketplaces and digital products that connect to the internet are simply not addressed by the current regime. The review will consider "what reform might be required to ensure the product liability regime is fit for purpose."

It is hoped that an initial report will be published at some point in 2026.

The Product Regulation and Metrology Act ("the Act") finally received Royal Assent on 21 July 2025.

Whilst the Act is primarily an "enabler" the Government have produced a Code of Practice which outlines how the powers of the Act will be utilised. One thing that will be a focus will be the identification of new and emerging business models in the supply chain, ie online marketplaces, and making the responsibilities of each party involved clear.

During the parliamentary debates the Government identified other areas for potential reform and/or further which include:

• regulation of higher risk products
• digital labelling
• information sharing
• introducing civil monetary penalties.

Whilst it is not expected that there will be a raft of immediate changes, the Government has said that it will introduce new rules for online marketplaces at the "earliest opportunity."