IWG on the electronic execution of documents – Law Society response
Consultation response
30 Sep 2022
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We responded to the Industry Working Group (IWG) on the Electronic Execution of Documents' consultation on the certification or regulation of those providing the means to apply electronic signatures.
The consultation
The IWG on Electronic Execution of Documents was established by the Ministry of Justice following a recommendation from the Law Commission.
The working group aims to ensure that the laws of England and Wales are fit for the purpose of digital innovation.
This consultation examined the electronic execution of documents.
It comprised six questions relating to the principles, nature and enforcement of certification for signature platforms.
Our view
We welcome the working group's view that platforms should self-certify against an agreed set of principles.
The principles should be formulated, maintained, and publicised by an industry or government body, subject to setting out certain qualifications.
These relate to:
- overlapping certifications
- the importance of a publicised list of certified companies
- encouraging uptake by a broad range of businesses
Next steps
The consultation closed on 9 September 2022.