Overview

This bill establishes a Constitutional Convention to review and make recommendations on the UK's constitution. The Convention will address key areas such as devolution, electoral reform, and the House of Lords, and is required to publish its recommendations within a year of its commencement.

Description

The bill mandates the creation of a Constitutional Convention tasked with examining and proposing changes to the UK's constitution. The Convention's terms of reference specifically 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 and reforms.

The Secretary of State will establish the Convention's operational rules, membership selection process (at least 50% of members must not hold political roles), and the date of commencement (no later than December 31, 2016). The Convention must publish its recommendations within one year, with the Secretary of State required to respond within six months.

Government Spending

The bill provides for government funding of all expenditure incurred by ministers under the Act and any additional costs arising from the act.

Groups Affected

The bill will impact:

• Political Parties: Will be represented on the Convention.
• Local Authorities: Will be represented on the Convention and potentially affected by devolution recommendations.
• Citizens of the UK: Will be affected by any constitutional changes recommended by the Convention.
• Scottish, English, Welsh, and Northern Irish Governments: Will be affected by recommendations related to devolution.
• Members of the House of Lords: Their roles could be altered by recommendations.

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