Overview

This bill mandates a public vote on any proposed Withdrawal Agreement between the UK and the European Union before it can take effect. The vote will offer a choice between approving the agreement and remaining in the EU. The result will determine the UK's future relationship with the EU.

Description

The bill requires the Secretary of State to present a proposed Withdrawal Agreement to Parliament by October 31st, 2018. A public vote must then be held before February 1st, 2019, asking voters whether to "Support the proposed Withdrawal Agreement" or "Remain a member of the European Union".

Vote Outcome

If "Support the proposed Withdrawal Agreement" wins, both Houses of Parliament must approve the agreement within a week. Failure to do so triggers an early general election. If "Remain a member of the European Union" wins, the 2017 European Union (Notification of Withdrawal) Act is repealed, and the UK formally retracts its Article 50 notification.

Referendum Provisions

The bill incorporates provisions from the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, adapting them for a "public vote" (not a "referendum"). The Secretary of State can create regulations for the vote, subject to parliamentary scrutiny, largely following the 2016 EU referendum model. The Electoral Commission will advise on these regulations.

Government Spending

The bill mandates that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State or government departments in implementing the act will be paid from public funds. Any increase in payments under other Acts due to this Act will also be funded by Parliament.

Groups Affected

• UK citizens and Gibraltar residents: They will be directly affected by the public vote and its outcome, which determines the UK's future relationship with the EU.
• UK Parliament: Parliament's role is crucial, needing to approve the Withdrawal Agreement if the "Support the Withdrawal Agreement" option wins the vote.
• Government departments: They will be responsible for implementing the bill and managing related costs.
• The European Union: The EU will be significantly affected by the outcome of the public vote, depending on whether the UK leaves or remains.
• Electoral Commission: The Commission will play an advisory role in ensuring the fairness and legality of the public vote.

Powered by nyModel