Dates to sign contracts

[Beyondbeliefsometimes]

We are currently in a chain and got word today that the first person has signed and contract has been posted. However I was told the next person in the chain 'can't sign until Monday due to some English law about dates'. I am outside of England, so this may be the case, but this sounds very suss, does anyone know of a reason why the contract wouldn't be able to be signed until next week..?
I do know this person in the chain is very keen to get signing and get things moving, so I am confused.

Never heard of this - we've always signed whenever they were ready, in readiness for exchange and the solicitor dates them on the day of exchange.

I used to be a Legal Secretary and never heard of an English law that stops contracts been signed. A contract can be signed any time, although contracts can't be exchange until the solicitors are happy they've got everything covered and had the final 'yes' and deposit monies (if buying) from their clients. Maybe someone has got confused and it's something to do with confirmation on a final bit of legal paperwork.

That’s weird. It’s usual to sign the paperwork so it’s ready for when everyone is ready to exchange.

Contract in the post or actioned by the solicitor and money transfer (if any) actioned?
If its linked to money or the drawdown periods it may be an issue as the end of the chain can still fail over the weekend and under their contract house 2 has to move out etc?

Thanks everyone, I also thought it was weird. Moving date isn't until later in March so shouldnt be a problem about having to move out over a weekend. They have actively seeked to move out over a weekend. I know this person is very keen to get moving. It's been a very upsetting long process for them (their buyers have put them through the mill and held up the chain for 3 months, potentially causing me to lose the house I'm purchasing). I just thought it was weird and can't think of why the reason would be