This note provides an overview of the 2016 UK Corporate Governance Code which applies to companies with a premium listing of equity securities for financial years beginning on or after 17 June 2016 and before 1 January 2019 (when the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code becomes effective). This note covers the structure of the 2016 Code, its key features, associated guidance and proposals for reform.

For details of the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code applicable to financial years beginning on or after 1 January 2019, see Practice note, 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code: overview: financial years beginning on or after 1 January 2019.