Overview

The Electoral Reform (Local Elections and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill aims to reform local elections in England. Key changes include switching to a "first past the post" system for electing mayors and Police and Crime Commissioners, holding all local elections on the same day, abolishing the current system of electing some local councillors in stages, and allowing MPs to also hold local government office.

Description

Mayoral and PCC Elections:

The bill changes the electoral system for elected mayors of local authorities and combined authorities, and Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs), from the current supplementary vote system to "first past the post". This means the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether they secure an absolute majority.

London Assembly:

The bill abolishes the distinction between "London Members" and "Constituency Members" of the London Assembly, with all members being elected from constituencies following a boundary review conducted by the Local Government Boundary Commission for England. The number of constituencies will increase to 25.

Local Authority Elections:

The bill abolishes the system of electing local councillors by halves or thirds. All councillors will be elected every four years, on a single election day.

Election Day:

All local elections (council, mayoral, PCC and London Assembly) will now take place on the same day – the first Thursday in May every four years, starting May 7, 2020. The bill allows for transitional arrangements to manage the shift.

MPs and Local Office:

The bill removes the disqualification of Members of Parliament from holding office as a Police and Crime Commissioner.

Government Spending

The bill requires the payment of any expenditure incurred under or by virtue of the Act by a Minister of the Crown, and any increase in sums payable under any other Act due to this Act. Specific figures are not provided within the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Elected Mayors: Will be elected under a first-past-the-post system.
• Police and Crime Commissioners: Will be elected under a first-past-the-post system.
• London Assembly Members: The system of election will change, with all members elected from constituencies.
• Local Councillors: Will all be elected on the same day every four years, ending staggered elections.
• Voters: Will experience a change in the voting system for various local elections and a change in election dates.
• Members of Parliament: Will no longer be disqualified from also holding office as a Police and Crime Commissioner.
• Local Government Boundary Commission for England: Required to conduct a review of London Assembly constituencies.

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