Overview

This bill outlines a clear order of succession for the position of Prime Minister in the event of the incumbent's temporary or permanent incapacitation. It ensures a smooth transition of power within the government, maintaining continuity and stability.

Description

The Prime Minister (Replacement) Bill establishes a predetermined order of succession for the office of Prime Minister should the current office holder become incapacitated (temporarily or permanently). The succession follows a specific order of precedence (see below) and is limited to Secretaries or Ministers of State from the same political party as the incapacitated Prime Minister. The bill specifies that the replacement Prime Minister assumes all the salaries, functions, and responsibilities of the office. The salary would be paid according to the Ministerial and other Salaries Act 1975.

Order of Succession:

1. Deputy Prime Minister
2. Home Secretary
3. Defence Secretary
4. Foreign Secretary
5. Chancellor of the Exchequer
6. Transport Secretary
7. Health Secretary
8. Business Secretary
9. Justice Secretary
10. Communities Secretary
11. Education Secretary
12. Environment Secretary
13. Work and Pensions Secretary
14. Cabinet Office Minister
15. Paymaster General
16. Culture Secretary
17. Attorney General
18. Energy Secretary
19. International Development Secretary
20. Leader of the House of Commons
21. Leader of the House of Lords
22. Scottish Secretary
23. Welsh Secretary
24. Northern Ireland Secretary

Government Spending

The bill does not directly impact government spending. The salary of the Prime Minister is simply transferred to the individual assuming the role. There is no increase or decrease in the overall budget.

Groups Affected

• Government Ministers: The bill directly affects the order of succession for the Prime Minister's office, impacting the potential future roles and responsibilities of various ministers.
• Political Parties: The bill's requirement that the replacement Prime Minister be from the same party as their predecessor ensures political continuity but could create challenges if a suitable replacement is unavailable from the same party.
• The Public: The bill aims to ensure government stability and continuity in case of a Prime Minister’s incapacitation, indirectly benefiting the public by maintaining the smooth running of the government.

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