This article introduces the special issue and sets the scene for the other contributors which address in more detail specific areas of the Bill. Specifically, this introductory article aims to do three things. First, to take a step back and place the New Act against England’s long history of arbitration law. Second, to identify and discuss the most important decisions of the English courts in the 25 years of the 1996 Act and examine whether they played any role in the constitution of the New Act. Finally, to offer a broad assessment of the Bill.