Ministers Move to Extend NDA Curbs Beyond Employees After Walliams Allegations

UK ministers are examining ways to change the law quickly so that restrictions on non-disclosure agreements cover freelancers and volunteers, not just employees, following a Guardian and ITV News investigation into David Walliams published on 11 November.

The investigation alleged that Walliams, 55, used his power and status to prey on young women for sex. He denies all allegations and unsuccessfully tried to block publication in London's High Court. There have been reports that an employer used an NDA to silence at least one woman connected to him.

Women and equalities minister Bridget Phillipson said the Government should look to "go further" on restricting the use of NDAs. Current measures prevent NDAs from being used to silence employees over harassment or discrimination. Ministers are considering extending those protections to freelancers and volunteers, groups that fall outside standard employment protections.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has summoned leaders in television, entertainment, publishing and sport to a meeting early next week. She warned the Government will not hesitate to take action if they fail to protect women from celebrity abusers. Ministers have given the industry an ultimatum: bring in better protections for women and children or face government action. One option under consideration is making it mandatory for companies to sign up to the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority, which tackles bullying and harassment.

The cross-government pressure follows the conviction of Russell Brand for rape as well as the Walliams allegations. The outcome could reshape how NDAs are used across all sectors, not just entertainment, and determine whether freelancers and volunteers gain the same protections as employees.

What ministers have not said is how quickly they can legislate, what specific mechanism would extend NDA restrictions to freelancers and volunteers, or whether any changes would apply retroactively. Officials have also not said how many NDAs have been used in the UK entertainment sector to silence harassment or discrimination claims, or whether they will publish such data. The meeting next week will indicate whether the industry offers voluntary protections or whether legislation follows.