Whistleblowing related to sanctions

Protections for whistleblowers have been strengthened. Read the latest update.

The Public Interest Disclosure (Prescribed Persons) (Amendment) Order 2025 strengthens whistleblower protections in the UK by expanding the categories of individuals and bodies that can receive protected disclosures related to sanctions violations.

As a result:

• HM Treasury was added as a prescribed person to receive suspected sanctions violations in relation to financial transactions or services
• the Secretary of State for Business and Trade was added as a prescribed person to receive suspected violations of trade sanctions (including import/export sanctions and director disqualifications sanctions)
• the Secretary of State for Transport was added as a prescribed person to receive suspected violations of transport sanctions (including aircraft and shipping) and related licensing offences.

This means employees who report potential breaches of UK financial, transport, and certain trade sanctions to designated government bodies, are now afforded legal protections against retaliation from their employers.

Further guidance and support on Anti-Money Laundering compliance is available on our AML webpage. You can also contact us on +44 (0)20 7367 1347 or via email [email protected].

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