Overview

This bill establishes a Constitutional Convention to review and make recommendations on the UK's constitution. The Convention will examine key areas like devolution, electoral reform, and the House of Lords, aiming to propose future constitutional changes.

Description

The bill mandates the creation of a Constitutional Convention to examine the UK constitution. The convention's terms of reference include:

• Devolution of power to Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, including legislative and fiscal powers.
• Devolution of power to local authorities.
• Electoral system reform.
• House of Lords reform.
• Procedures for future constitutional reforms.
• Identification of further constitutional matters needing future conventions.

The Convention must publish recommendations within one year of its commencement, with the Secretary of State responding within six months. The Convention's membership will represent political parties, local authorities, and the nations and regions of the UK, with at least 50% of members lacking roles reasonably considered political. The Secretary of State will set the convention's commencement date (no later than December 31, 2016) and operational rules via regulations subject to parliamentary annulment.

Government Spending

The bill provides for government funding of all expenditures incurred by a Minister of the Crown under the Act, plus any increase in sums payable under other Acts attributable to this Act. Specific figures are not provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Political Parties: Will be represented on the Convention, influencing its recommendations.
• Local Authorities: Will be represented and may see changes to their powers based on Convention recommendations.
• Citizens of the UK: Will be affected by any constitutional changes resulting from the Convention's recommendations.
• Members of the House of Lords: The reform of the House of Lords is directly under consideration by the convention.
• Scottish, Welsh, and Northern Irish Governments: Devolution of powers is a key area considered.

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