Whistleblowers to be protected from gagging orders used to silence victims ... trends now
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A major crackdown on gagging orders will see abusers no longer able to silence victims who can now report crimes to police.
Changes to the law on non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), commonly used to protect sensitive information and hush up allegations of wrongdoing, will allow victims to seek justice and support to rebuild their lives.
The move comes after high profile cases such as disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein revealed how confidentiality agreements were being used by sexual predators and bullies to escape prosecution.
In a major victory for victims, NDAs will no longer be legally enforceable if they prevent employees from reporting a crime.
It means victims will be free to speak about their experiences to police, lawyers, doctors and counsellors without fear of legal action for breaking the terms of the agreement.
Changes to the law on non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), commonly used to protect sensitive information and hush up allegations of wrongdoing, will allow victims to seek justice and support to rebuild their lives (Stock Photo)
The move comes after high profile cases such as disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein (pictured) revealed how confidentiality agreements were being used by sexual predators and bullies to escape prosecution
Many businesses use non-disclosure agreements legitimately to protect commercially-sensitive information and trade secrets.
But bosses have also been accused of misusing the draconian clauses to silence victims of sexual harassment, bullying, discrimination and workplace abuse.
Yesterday it emerged that a number of staff at the CBI who reported sexual misconduct and bullying have been made to sign non-disclosure agreements.
Britain's leading business lobby group was thrown into crisis last year after dozens of people claimed to have been victims of sexual harassment, assault
