Overview

This bill mandates an independent audit of the economic, social, and political 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 a seven-member EU Membership Audit Commission. The Chancellor of the Exchequer will appoint the members, ensuring a balance of views on EU membership, a neutral chair, and the exclusion of individuals with ties to the European Parliament or Commission.

The Commission's task is to assess the current costs and benefits of UK EU membership, considering its impact on:

• The UK economy (including public spending and receipts).
• The UK's competitiveness and ability to trade freely.
• National security and defence (including immigration policy).
• The burden of EU regulation.
• UK sovereignty.

The Commission must submit its report to Parliament within twelve months of its appointment. The Treasury will provide administrative support and remuneration for the commission members.

Government Spending

The bill will incur expenditure by the Treasury for administrative support and members' remuneration. The exact amount is not specified in the bill but will be payable from money provided by Parliament.

Groups Affected

• The UK Government: Responsible for appointing the commission and funding its operations.
• The EU Membership Audit Commission: Responsible for conducting the audit and reporting to Parliament.
• The UK Parliament: Receives the Commission's report and will use the findings to inform future policy decisions.
• The Public: The report's findings will impact public debate and understanding of the UK's EU membership.
• Businesses: The audit's impact on trade policy and regulation could affect business operations.

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