Tech Disputes Network (TDN) – Need to Know Basis

Triple Point Technology Inc v PTT Public Company Ltd - James Howells QC, Robert Fidoe and Matthew Walker

We are pleased to announce the latest podcast, which is on the topic of the recent Supreme Court decision in Triple Point Technology Inc v PTT Public Company Ltd [2021] UKSC 29.

This was a much-publicised decision and may well be familiar to many TDN members. It was much anticipated in certain sectors, following a controversial decision in the Court of Appeal. The issues it decided were threefold: (1) whether an employer only has a right to liquidated damages if the contractor completes the works, or if liquidated damages are still payable if the employer terminates the contract before completion; (2) whether a limitation of liability clause excluding loss caused by "negligence" applies to acts amounting to a breach of a contractual duty to use reasonable care and skill, which do not constitute negligence in tort; and (3) whether a limitation of liability clause excluding claims for which there are "specific remedies expressly identified as such in this contract" nonetheless applies to liquidated damages. These issues are of course of considerable significance to many areas of the disputes market, perhaps in particular IT and construction. 

Our panellists for this podcast are James Howells QC of Atkin Chambers, Robert Fidoe of Watson Farley & Williams and Matthew Walker of K&L Gates. James was leading counsel for the successful appellant in the Supreme Court, instructed by a Watson Farley & Williams led by Robert, and Matthew is one of the City’s leading contentious construction lawyers. The Tech Disputes Network are very fortunate to welcome such a distinguished panel to discuss this important case. We hope that you enjoy the podcast.