From today an electronic signature is legally admissible as evidence in court in the same way as a hand-written signature. This legal milestone brings the UK a step closer to its aim of becoming the best place in the world for e-commerce.
Electronic signatures are essential if contracts are to be concluded over the internet.
Businesses and people using the web can now feel more confident knowing that e-signatures will be admissible as evidence in a court of law should a dispute arise. Under Section 7 of the Electronic Communications Act 2000 which comes into force today electronic signatures and any certificate which supports them can be used as evidence in court in much the same way as a hand-written signature. The UK is one of the first countries in the world to pass legislation in this area. Sections 11 and 12 of the Act also come into force today. These streamline procedures for amending telecommunications licences under the 1984 Telecommunications Act.