Overview

This bill modernizes the rules of succession to the British throne. It removes gender discrimination, allowing the eldest child to inherit regardless of sex, and repeals laws disqualifying individuals from succeeding to the throne due to marrying a Roman Catholic.

Description

The Succession to the Crown Bill makes several key changes:

• Gender Equality in Succession: The bill ensures that the gender of a person born after 28 October 2011 does not affect their place in the line of succession. The eldest child will inherit, regardless of gender.
• Removal of Religious Disqualification: The bill removes the disqualification from inheriting the throne for marrying a Roman Catholic. This applies retrospectively to existing marriages.
• Royal Marriage Consent: The bill requires the six individuals next in line to the throne to obtain the Sovereign's consent before marriage. Failure to do so disqualifies them and their descendants from succession. The outdated Royal Marriages Act 1772 is repealed, with exceptions made for certain past marriages.
• Consequential Amendments: The bill makes consequential amendments to several historical Acts, including the Treason Act 1351, the Bill of Rights, and the Act of Settlement, to reflect the changes in succession rules.

Government Spending

The bill's financial impact is not explicitly stated in the provided text. It is likely to involve minimal direct government spending, primarily related to administrative and legal processes associated with the amendments and the repeal of the Royal Marriages Act 1772.

Groups Affected

• Royal Family Members: The changes directly affect the order of succession within the Royal Family, especially those born after 28 October 2011.
• Individuals of Roman Catholic Faith: The removal of religious restrictions benefits those married to or intending to marry members of the Royal Family.
• Historians and Legal Scholars: The repeal of outdated legislation and amendments to historical acts will require review and updated interpretations by legal and historical professionals.

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