Overview

This bill mandates the Secretary of State to introduce a new bill within 12 months, creating a process for holding referendums on proportional representation (PR) in local government elections in England. These referendums would only be held if a 10% petition of electors and a resolution from the local government body are both in favour.

Description

This bill requires the creation of a future bill which will establish the framework for local referendums on the introduction of proportional representation (PR) for local government elections in England.

Triggering a Referendum

A referendum will only be triggered if two conditions are met:

• A petition signed by at least 10% of electors in a specific local government area is submitted.
• The relevant local government body (unitary authority, county council, district council, or borough council) passes a resolution supporting the referendum.

Referendum Timing

The referendum must be held on the same day as the next local government elections in that area.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly allocate funds. However, the creation of the framework for referendums will incur costs related to developing the new bill, administering the vote and organizing referendums, although precise figures are not provided in this bill text.

Groups Affected

• Electors in England: They will have the opportunity to vote in referendums on PR, if triggered by local petitions and council resolutions.
• Local Government Bodies: Councils will have to consider petitions and potentially organize and participate in referendums.
• Political Parties: The outcome of referendums could significantly alter local political representation.
• The Secretary of State: Responsible for introducing the legislation that will enable local referendums.

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