In a Commercial List dispute involving the valuation of shares in a pharmacy business and claims regarding termination pay, the parties brought a refusals and production motion relating to documentary disclosure.
During the hearing, the court concluded that the issues required more extensive argument than appropriate for a brief Commercial List refusals motion.
The judge provided guidance regarding production obligations concerning alleged diversion of business and the use of company funds benefiting related entities.
However, the court determined that detailed refusals disputes should be heard by a Master, whose jurisdiction includes such matters.
The motion was therefore referred to a Master for determination, with further case management to follow once the production issues are resolved.