Overview

This bill mandates the introduction of a new bill within 12 months, which will establish a process for holding referendums on changing local government election voting systems in England to proportional representation. These referendums would only occur if at least 10% of electors in an area petition for it, and the local government body also approves.

Description

This bill requires the Secretary of State to draft and introduce a new bill to Parliament. This future bill will detail the process for holding referendums in England on switching local government elections to proportional representation (PR).

Eligibility for a Referendum

A referendum can only take place if two conditions are met: 1) A petition signed by at least 10% of the electors in a local government area is submitted; and 2) The relevant local authority (unitary, county, district or borough council) passes a resolution supporting a referendum.

Referendum Timing

Referendums, if held, will coincide with the next scheduled local government elections in the area concerned.

Geographical Scope

The bill applies only to England.

Government Spending

The bill itself does not directly allocate any specific funds. The financial implications will depend on the costs associated with implementing the future bill, which will cover the costs of organizing and conducting the referendums. No figures are available at this stage.

Groups Affected

• Electors in England: They will have the opportunity to vote in referendums on changing the voting system if the required petition and council resolution are achieved.
• Local Government Bodies: They will be responsible for deciding whether to support a referendum and for potentially implementing a new PR system if the referendum is successful.
• Political Parties: The change to PR could alter election results and the power dynamics of local government.
• Parliament: Parliament will be responsible for passing the secondary legislation required to implement this bill’s provisions.

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