Overview

This bill mandates an independent audit of the economic, social, and security costs and benefits of the UK's membership in the European Union. The audit will be conducted by a commission appointed by the Chancellor of the Exchequer and will report its findings to Parliament.

Description

The EU Membership (Audit of Costs and Benefits) Bill establishes an independent commission to assess the costs and benefits of UK EU membership.

Commission Appointment and Composition:

The Chancellor of the Exchequer will appoint a seven-member commission, including a chairperson. Members must be British nationals, with a balance of pro and anti-EU views, and the chair must be neutral. Former members of the European Parliament or European Commission employees are ineligible.

Commission's Task:

The commission will examine the current costs and benefits of UK EU membership, considering its impact on the UK's economy (including public spending and receipts), competitiveness and trade, national security and defense (including immigration policy), regulatory burden, and sovereignty.

Commission's Report:

The commission must report its findings to Parliament within twelve months of its appointment.

Treasury Support:

The Treasury will provide administrative and other support to the commission, and may pay members remuneration and expenses.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred by the Treasury due to this act will be met from money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

This bill could affect numerous groups.

• The UK Government: Will be responsible for appointing the commission and funding its operations.
• The EU: The commission’s findings could impact the UK's continued membership or future negotiations with the EU.
• Businesses: The audit's conclusions on trade and the economy could impact business decisions and investment.
• The Public: The findings will be publicly available and may influence public opinion on EU membership.

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