The United Kingdom set out its position for the 12th session of the open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group on transnational corporations and other business enterprises with respect to human rights, in a statement published on 12 October 2026.

According to the statement, the UK remains committed to responsible business conduct, preventing business-related human rights abuses and supporting access to effective remedy. It said it recognises the potential value of an instrument that strengthens international cooperation and improves outcomes for those affected, but argued that any such instrument must be clear, legally coherent and workable for states, businesses and rights-holders.

The UK said it would focus on ensuring proposed provisions complement existing legal frameworks and can be implemented in practice, and that the draft treaty should remain aligned with established international standards, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Referring to the Chair's suggested redrafting of certain articles, it said the short time available meant it was still assessing the proposals and would reserve its position where appropriate.