MARCH WEEK 2 – Sectional Title Input sought, – Comment on Biodiversity framework, – Customer due diligence, – Pro Bono Policy

AGRICULTURAL AND LAND

Input sought on Sectional Title, Agricultural Agents Bills

Written submissions are sought by 9 April on the 2020 Sectional Titles Amendment Bill and Agricultural Produce Agents Amendment Bill.

ENVIRONMENTAL

Revised biodiversity framework out for comment

A draft revised national biodiversity framework approved by Cabinet nearly four months ago for public comment was gazetted.

FINANCE

More guidance on prominent customer due diligence

Comment is sought by 26 March on a draft public compliance communication seeking to address ‘inconsistencies’ in accountable institutions’ understanding of their customer due diligence obligations when dealing with domestic prominent influential persons, foreign prominent public officials, their family members and ‘known close associates’.

LEGAL

Lawyers opposed to extension of pro bono policy

Lawyers have warned that the Legal Practice Council’s (LPC) plans to transform their profession with the draft legal sector code, which is presently up for discussion, contains clauses that could potentially cripple legal practices.

Their biggest concern was the significantly increased number of pro bono (free of charge) hours lawyers must work annually, to be in good standing with the LPC.