Overview

This bill proposes a new open list system for electing Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in Great Britain and Gibraltar. It replaces the existing system and outlines a specific process for allocating seats based on individual candidate votes and party performance.

Description

Changes to the Voting System

The bill introduces an "open regional list" system for electing MEPs in Great Britain and Gibraltar. Voters can choose individual candidates from a party list, or choose candidates not on a registered party list. Seats are allocated proportionally, starting with the candidate with the most votes from the party with the most votes. Subsequent seats are allocated using a modified d'Hondt method, where votes for parties already allocated seats are divided by the number of seats already allocated plus one. The existing system, defined in Section 2 of the Parliamentary Elections Act 2002, is repealed.

Seat Allocation

The process for allocating seats considers votes for both individual candidates and their associated parties. It prioritizes the highest vote-getters, with the allocation method adjusting for parties that have already secured seats. The precise mathematical formula for allocating seats is laid out within the bill's clauses.

Registered Parties

The bill defines "registered party" using the criteria laid out in Part 2 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify changes to government spending. The cost of implementing the new electoral system, including regulatory changes and potential administrative adjustments, is likely to involve some additional expenditure but no specific figures are included in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Voters in Great Britain and Gibraltar: Will experience a change in the voting system for MEP elections.
• Political Parties: Will need to adapt their campaigning and candidate selection strategies to the new open list system.
• Candidates for MEP Elections: Will be impacted by the revised allocation of seats and possibly increased emphasis on individual campaigning, even within party lists.
• Electoral Commission: Responsible for implementing and overseeing the new system.

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