Overview

This bill seeks to repeal the Transparency of Lobbying, Non-Party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Act 2014. It aims to remove regulations related to lobbying transparency, non-party political campaigning, and trade union administration, while preserving some specific amendments made by the 2014 Act and making provisions for the transition and winding down of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists.

Description

The bill repeals the Transparency of Lobbying, Non-Party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Act 2014, with some exceptions. Specifically, sections 3 and 4 of the 2014 Act remain in effect. Certain amendments made by the 2014 Act to the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 are also retained, albeit with slight modifications. The bill addresses contracts entered into before the repeal, ensuring no penalties arise from fulfilling pre-existing agreements. Finally, it establishes a process for dissolving the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, including transferring assets and liabilities and preparing a final financial statement.

Government Spending

The bill is expected to reduce government spending by eliminating the costs associated with maintaining the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists. Exact figures are not provided in the bill text itself. The cost savings are likely to come from staff salaries, office maintenance and other administrative expenses associated with the Registrar's operation.

Groups Affected

• Lobbyists: The repeal will reduce the regulatory burden on lobbyists, potentially leading to less stringent transparency requirements.
• Non-party campaigners: Similar to lobbyists, these groups will face reduced regulatory oversight.
• Trade unions: The administrative requirements related to trade union activity under the 2014 Act will be lessened.
• The Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists and its staff: This office will be abolished, leading to job losses and the transfer of responsibilities and assets.
• The public: The level of transparency surrounding lobbying and campaign finance may decrease.

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