When Set-Off Meets Fairness: Insights from Metal Manufactures v Morton

The High Court’s decision in Metal Manufactures v Morton closed the door on creditors using statutory set-off to shield unfair preference payments. This case note unpacks the Court’s reasoning, why the set-off argument failed, and what today’s businesses can learn from a judgment built around fairness, transparency, and the proper handling of money moving in both directions. It also shows how Clean Law’s escrow safeguards reflect the very principles the High Court reinforced.