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Overview

This bill modernizes the rules of succession for hereditary peerages in the UK, removing gender discrimination and establishing a universal rule of succession based on primogeniture (first born) with a preference for males within the same generation.

Description

The Succession to Peerages Bill aims to update the law governing inheritance of hereditary peerages. Key aspects include:

• Universal Rule of Succession: The bill introduces a universal rule where the eldest child, regardless of gender, inherits the peerage. However, among siblings, males will take precedence over females.
• Extinct Peerages: The bill addresses peerages that became extinct after February 6, 1952, by retrospectively applying the universal rule of succession. Those who would have inherited under the new rules can petition the monarch for recognition. Peerages extinct before this date are unaffected unless specifically petitioned.
• Peerages in Abeyance: Peerages currently in abeyance (suspended because of multiple claimants) will be awarded according to the new universal rule of succession.
• Exceptions: The bill explicitly states it does not affect succession to the Crown, other titles held by the monarch, or the inheritance of land or personal property.
• Past Successions: The bill will not affect any successions to peerages that occurred before its enactment.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant impact on UK government spending. The primary cost will likely be associated with administrative processes related to petitions and changes to official records.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected by this bill include:

• Women and their descendants: They will now have equal opportunity to inherit peerages.
• Heirs presumptive: Individuals who were previously in line to inherit may be replaced under the new system.
• Claimants to extinct peerages: Individuals may now petition for peerages that became extinct after 6 February 1952.
• Government Departments: Relevant government bodies will need to update their records and procedures to reflect the changes in succession laws.