Significant New and
Outdated Laws in the UK

The UK is getting a whole new set of laws! From May 2022, a whole new set of UK legislation will come into force. While that is happening, it is important to not neglect how there are still some unusual laws that still arise in the UK.

Technology Lawyer firm EM Law explored some of the most unusual UK laws that people might not be aware of and we’ll be exploring some of those, as well as mentioning which new UK laws will come into effect this month and beyond.

The UK’s Outdated Laws 

It Is Theoretically Unlawful To Fly A Kite In A Public Location

It may surprise you that what appears to be a typical summer pleasure, such as flying a kite in public, is illegal.

According to section 54 of the Metropolitan Police Act 1839, this law was designed to prevent common nuisances and risks to local residents.

Shaking Your Rug In The Street

You may have a rug or carpet that must be cleaned to remove dirt or dust; however, while a simple shake-down rug may appear harmless, it is unlawful.

Section 60 of the Metropolitan Police Act 1839 makes it illegal to beat or shake any carpets, rugs, or mats before 8 a.m., except doormats.

In England, You Can’t Stroll Cows Along the Street During the Day

In England, it is common to see cows grazing in fields; however, according to the highway act 1835, it is illegal to take these animals for a walk on the street.

It is prohibited to drive any cattle through the streets according to the Metropolitan Streets Act of 1867, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., which stems from the Metropolitan Police District, unless someone has special authorization from the Police Commissioner.

A Pet Cannot Mate with Another from The Royal Household

It is illegal for a pet owner to allow their animal to mate with another from the royal household. The law protected the purity of the bloodline of the royal dogs and prevent inbreeding. This attracts a punishment of imprisonment for up to three months or a fine of £5000. Even until 1965, this would have meant death.

In England and Wales, being discovered intoxicated in a bar or on licensed premises is unlawful

According to Section 12 of the Licensing Act of 1872, it is illegal to be found intoxicated in a bar or other licensed premises in England and Wales.

The Licensing (Amendment) Act 1988 expanded the ban to include all public venues, including pubs, clubs, and even private houses where alcohol is served. The law was designed to prevent public drunkenness and disorderly conduct.

New UK Laws From May 

Black Boxes Will Be Fitted in All New Cars Sold in The UK

From July 6, 2022, all cars will have speed limiters. This only applies to new cars made after that date, not vehicles already on the road. The driver can override the system; however, the police can access the data in the event of a crash. In the seconds leading up to an accident, the box records speed, braking, and steering positions.

Clean Air Zones

This year, the country’s Ultra-Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) will be expanded. A “clean Air Zone” will be established on May 30, 2022, for Greater Manchester, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, and Wigan.

These zones are designed to reduce air pollution in cities. However, only coaches, taxis, buses, HGVs, LVGs, and PHVs would be affected. Sheffield, Bristol, and Newcastle will all have a similar regulation starting in July 2022.

Age Of Legal Marriage

The legal age of marriage in England and Wales will rise from 16 to 18. The change will come into effect on March 8, 2022, to discourage underage weddings. Adults who arrange an underage marriage could be sentenced to seven years in prison and fined under the new rule.

Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging

By 2022, all new business and residential structures in England must contain an electric vehicle charging station. The government believes that by increasing the number of EV charging stations available, the uptake of electric vehicles would rise before the sale of new diesel and gasoline vehicles is prohibited after 2030.

Pavement Parking 

Pavement parking will be banned across England, except in London. This means that people can no longer park their vehicles on the sidewalk, which can damage the pavement and make it difficult for pedestrians to get by.

However, in 2022, the legislation will be changed to allow local councils across England and Wales to impose on-the-spot £70 penalties on people who mount the curb.

The United Kingdom is preparing itself for an intriguing future by introducing these news laws. People need to stay vigilant and do their thorough research on knowing the full details about these forthcoming new laws, while also being aware of some of the outdated and unique UK laws.

So, if you find yourself at a pub on a night out with your friends and you start to feel really intoxicated, then instead of getting another drink and then being drunk on a licensed premise, go home instead! Don’t go breaking the law!