The introduction of the updated handbook, which will be hosted on a new, sign-in platform, has been postponed from 2 March until the end of June 2026. The current handbook will continue to be accessible until the new launch date.

All three UK law societies have worked together to press UK Finance to address concerns about the lack of engagement with the legal profession regarding the new handbook. On 30 January, UK Finance dropped its plan to charge an annual fee to access the handbook for the foreseeable future, in the wake of strong criticism from the professional bodies.

UK Finance is inviting conveyancers to take part in a new phase of testing for the platform. Solicitors who would like to take part can send their details to mlh@ukfinance.org.uk.

Fiona Alexander, convener of the Law Society of Scotland Property Law Committee, said: “I’m pleased UK Finance has listened to the serious concerns we and others have raised and agreed to delay implementation until June. It’s important that the new handbook operates as intended and we will continue to work with UK Finance and the other law societies to ensure conveyancers have the opportunity to provide feedback prior to launch.

“I encourage Scottish conveyancers to sign up to test the new platform.”