Overview

This bill aims to make it a criminal offence for elected representatives in the UK to knowingly publish false or misleading statements. It also criminalizes making false allegations about such offences. The bill specifies penalties including fines and potential disqualification from future elections.

Description

The Elected Representatives (Prohibition of Deception) Bill establishes two main offences:

Offence of Deception

It is an offence for an elected representative (including MPs, MSPs, MSs, MLAs, MEPs, and elected mayors) or their agent to knowingly publish a false or misleading statement. The penalty is a fine (up to level 5 on the standard scale) and possible disqualification from holding elected office for up to 10 years. Defences include unknowingly making the statement, not being involved in its publication, taking reasonable care to ensure accuracy, or acting in the interests of national security.

Offence of Making a False Allegation

Knowingly making a false, trivial, or frivolous complaint that an elected representative committed the first offence is also criminalized. The penalty is a fine (up to level 3 on the standard scale).

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The cost will likely relate to potential legal proceedings and enforcement.

Groups Affected

• Elected Representatives: They will be subject to potential legal action for knowingly making false or misleading statements.
• The Public: The public will potentially benefit from increased accountability of elected officials.
• Law Enforcement Agencies: They will be responsible for investigating and prosecuting cases under the new law.
• The Courts: They will be involved in determining the guilt or innocence of those accused under the bill.

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