As of yesterday an electronic signature is legally admissible as evidence in court in the same way as a hand-written signature, making the UK one of the first countries in the world to introduce such legislation.

A spokesperson for the DTI said: "This legal milestone brings the UK a step closer to its aim of becoming the best place in the world for e-commerce. Electronic signatures are essential if contracts are to be concluded over the internet."

Various forms of signature will be valid, including digital scans of the hand-written version and coded signatures. Businesses and people using the web can now feel more confident knowing that e-signatures will be admissible as evidence in a court of law should a dispute arise.
A copy of the Act and Explanatory Notes are available from the Stationery Office website: http://www.uk-legislation.hmso.gov.uk/acts.htm

Anna Lagerkvist