Overview

This bill amends the European Union (Withdrawal) Bill to ensure that the UK Parliament has the final say on any Brexit deal negotiated with the European Union. It requires parliamentary approval of the withdrawal agreement and the framework for future relations before the agreement can be ratified.

Description

The bill mandates that the UK government can only ratify a Brexit withdrawal agreement if it meets specific parliamentary approval processes. These include:

• A Minister of the Crown must present to both Houses of Parliament: a statement confirming a political agreement has been reached, a copy of the negotiated withdrawal agreement, and a copy of the framework for future UK-EU relations.
• The House of Commons must approve the negotiated withdrawal agreement and framework via a resolution moved by a Minister of the Crown.
• The House of Lords must debate a motion taking note of the agreement and framework (or a debate must not be concluded within five Lords sitting days following the Commons' approval).
• An Act of Parliament must be passed to implement the withdrawal agreement.
• The House of Commons will also be required to approve any statements made by the Government regarding the handling of negotiations under Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union, in the absence of a successful deal.

Time limits are imposed on various stages of the process, including deadlines for parliamentary votes and government statements in the absence of a Brexit deal by specific dates.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify additional government spending. However, the costs associated with further negotiations, parliamentary processes, and potential implementation of the agreement will likely incur additional government expenditure, although specific figures are not provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

• UK Parliament: The bill significantly increases parliamentary scrutiny and control over the Brexit process.
• UK Government: The government is bound by the parliamentary approval process, potentially limiting its negotiating flexibility.
• European Union: The EU's negotiating position may be affected by the requirement for UK parliamentary approval.
• Businesses and Citizens: The outcome of the bill directly impacts the nature of the UK's departure from the EU and therefore has major implications for UK businesses and citizens.

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