Overview

This Bill outlines a process for recalling Members of Parliament (MPs) from the House of Commons. It details the steps required to initiate a recall, including gathering signatures on a petition and holding a referendum, ultimately leading to the potential vacation of an MP's seat if a majority votes in favor of recall.

Description

The Bill establishes a multi-stage recall process. First, a "notice of intent to recall" must be signed by at least 5% of eligible voters in the MP's constituency and submitted to a returning officer. Then, a recall petition must be signed by at least 20% of eligible voters. If successful, a recall referendum is held. If a majority votes to recall the MP, their seat is vacated.

Key Stages:

• Notice of Intent: Requires signatures from 5% of eligible voters, detailing the reasons for the recall.
• Recall Petition: Requires signatures from 20% of eligible voters if the Notice of Intent is successful.
• Recall Referendum: A vote held if the recall petition is successful. A majority vote in favor of recall vacates the MP's seat.

The Bill also details the roles of returning officers, the form and content of petitions and the referendum question, and outlines offenses related to the process, such as fraudulent signatures. It allows for the extension of the recall system to local government offices and clarifies that recall processes for devolved legislatures are a devolved matter.

Government Spending

The Bill will likely increase government spending due to the costs associated with the administration of recall processes, including staffing, printing materials, and conducting referendums. Specific figures are not provided in the Bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Members of Parliament (MPs): Directly affected; risk of losing their seats if a recall process is successfully completed.
• Voters: Given the power to initiate and participate in the recall process.
• Returning Officers: Responsible for administering the various stages of the recall process, increasing their workload.
• Local Authorities: May be required to provide resources and staff support to returning officers.
• Electoral Commission: Given a role in overseeing and reporting on the administration of the recall process.

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