Overview

This bill modernizes the rules of succession for hereditary peerages in the UK, ensuring equal inheritance rights for men and women. It aims to replace the current system with a universal rule of succession, eliminating gender discrimination.

Description

Succession to Hereditary Peerages

The bill abolishes the current system which prevents women from inheriting peerages. It establishes a "universal rule of succession" where all children inherit equally, ending gender-based discrimination.

The Universal Rule of Succession

This rule prioritizes the eldest child, regardless of gender. However, within the same sibling group, males will take precedence over females in order of birth.

Extinct Peerages

For peerages that became extinct after 6 February 1952, the bill allows them to vest in the person who would have inherited under the new universal rule. Those who would have inherited before this date can petition the Queen but must do so within a year.

Peerages in Abeyance

The bill ensures that peerages currently in abeyance (suspended due to multiple potential heirs) will be resolved according to the new universal rule of succession.

Exclusions

The bill specifically states it will not affect the succession to the Crown, other existing titles held by the Queen, or the inheritance of other property (land, etc.). Past successions remain unaffected.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant impact on UK government spending as it primarily concerns the rules of inheritance for peerages and doesn't involve direct government financial commitments.

Groups Affected

• Women: Will now have equal inheritance rights to peerages, removing historical gender-based discrimination.
• Heirs to peerages: Their position in the line of succession may change depending on the new rules.
• Individuals with claims to extinct peerages: May be able to petition the Queen to gain the title under the new system.

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