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 outcome 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 agreement or remain in the EU. The question and answers will be printed in both English and Welsh in Wales. If "Remain" wins, the 2017 European Union (Notification of Withdrawal) Act is repealed, and the Prime Minister must notify the EU of the UK's intention to withdraw its Article 50 notification. If "Support the Withdrawal Agreement" wins, both Houses of Parliament must approve the agreement within one week. Failure to do so triggers an early general election. The bill incorporates provisions from the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, and seeks to mirror the 2016 EU referendum process as closely as reasonably possible.

Government Spending

The bill stipulates that any expenses incurred by the Secretary of State or government departments in implementing the Act will be covered by parliamentary funds. It also covers any increase in spending required under other Acts as a result of this bill. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• UK Citizens: Will be directly affected by the outcome of the public vote, determining whether the UK leaves the EU under the agreed terms or remains a member.
• Gibraltar: Included in the scope of the public vote and the bill's application.
• UK Parliament: Must approve the Withdrawal Agreement if the public vote supports it; otherwise, faces an early general election.
• European Union: The outcome directly impacts the EU's relationship with the UK.
• Government Departments: Responsible for implementing the Act and will incur expenses covered by Parliament.
• Electoral Commission: Will be consulted on the regulations governing the public vote.

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