Overview

This bill outlines a process for replacing the UK Prime Minister if they become temporarily or permanently incapacitated. It establishes a clear order of succession from among existing Cabinet ministers, ensuring a smooth transition of power and the continued functioning of government.

Description

The Prime Minister (Replacement) Bill details the procedure for replacing the Prime Minister in cases of incapacity. The bill dictates that the office of Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury will be transferred to another Secretary or Minister of State.

Order of Succession

The order of succession is specified in a schedule within the bill and follows a pre-defined hierarchy of Cabinet members. This hierarchy begins with the Deputy Prime Minister and proceeds through various Secretaries of State and Ministers of State in a specific order. The order prioritizes senior government officials. Only individuals from the same political party as the incapacitated Prime Minister are eligible to assume the role.

Financial and Functional Implications

The bill ensures that the salary and all functions and responsibilities of the Prime Minister are transferred to the successor. The successor will receive the Prime Minister's salary under the Ministerial and other Salaries Act 1975.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly involve any new government spending. The salary of the Prime Minister will simply be transferred to the individual who takes over the role, resulting in no net change to government expenditure.

Groups Affected

The groups most directly affected are:

• The UK Government: The bill ensures continuity of government in times of crisis.
• Cabinet Ministers: The bill clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of various Cabinet ministers in a succession scenario.
• The Prime Minister: The bill impacts the Prime Minister's ability to remain in office in the event of incapacity.
• The Public: The bill is designed to ensure stability and continued government function, directly impacting the public.

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