Overview

This bill establishes a Constitutional Convention to review and make recommendations on the UK's constitution. The Convention will examine key areas such as devolution, electoral reform, and the House of Lords, aiming to improve the UK's governance.

Description

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

• Devolution of legislative and fiscal power to Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and to local authorities.
• Electoral system reform.
• House of Lords reform.
• Planning for future constitutional conventions.
• Procedures for implementing constitutional reforms.

The Convention must publish recommendations within a year of its commencement, with the Secretary of State responding within six months. Membership will represent registered political parties, local authorities, and the UK's nations and regions, with at least 50% of members lacking political employment. The Secretary of State will set the Convention's rules and appointment of members through regulations which are subject to parliamentary annulment.

Government Spending

The bill will incur government expenditure covering the Convention's operational costs and any related increases in spending under other legislation. The exact financial impact is not specified in the bill.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Political parties: Their representation in the Convention will influence the reform process.
• Local authorities: Their involvement will shape recommendations on devolution of power.
• Citizens of the UK: The outcome will affect the UK's governance and political landscape.
• Scottish, Welsh, and Northern Irish governments: Their devolved powers may be impacted by the recommendations.
• Members of the House of Lords: The Convention's recommendations concerning the House of Lords could influence their future role.

Powered by nyModel