Overview

This bill proposes a referendum on the UK's exit package from the European Union before Article 50 is triggered. The referendum would allow the public to either endorse the government's proposed exit package or choose to remain in the EU.

Description

The bill mandates that the Secretary of State present a detailed statement to Parliament outlining the proposed exit package. This statement must include specifics on the UK's access to the single market, potential tariffs, trade agreements, the status of EU and UK citizens' rights post-Brexit, and the government's estimated economic impact. A referendum will then be held, asking voters whether they support the government's exit package or prefer to remain in the EU. The question on the ballot paper will be: “Do you support the Government’s proposed United Kingdom and Gibraltar exit package for negotiating withdrawal from the European Union or Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union?” Article 50 will not be triggered until after the referendum's result is declared. The bill closely follows the procedures of the 2015 EU Referendum Act where possible, and the Electoral Commission will review the referendum process, providing feedback to Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill states that all expenditure incurred under this Act by the Minister, and any increase in sums payable under other Acts attributable to this Act, will be paid out of money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are given.

Groups Affected

• UK Citizens: The referendum will directly impact UK citizens by allowing them to vote on the terms of Brexit or remaining in the EU. The outcome could significantly affect their economic prospects, rights, and overall quality of life.
• EU Citizens in the UK: Their future rights and status in the UK are explicitly addressed in the proposed exit package, making them a key group impacted by this legislation.
• UK Citizens in the EU: Their rights and status after Brexit are also included in the exit package and therefore the outcome of the referendum directly affects them.
• Businesses: The economic impacts of Brexit, including trade deals and tariffs, will significantly affect businesses across the UK.
• Parliament: Parliament plays a crucial role in reviewing the proposed exit package and scrutinizing the referendum process.
• Electoral Commission: The Electoral Commission is responsible for overseeing the fairness and legality of the referendum.

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