Overview

The Act of Union Bill proposes significant constitutional reforms for the United Kingdom, redefining the relationship between the UK government and the devolved administrations in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The bill includes a referendum to determine whether the proposed changes will come into effect, along with options for different governmental structures within England and for the House of Lords.

Description

The bill aims to create a stronger, more clearly defined union, with a focus on core purposes: the rule of law, fundamental rights, defence, tolerance, equality, safety, economic strength, and social and economic rights. It establishes a list of “central policy areas” (e.g., foreign affairs, defence, taxation, currency) under the exclusive legislative control of the UK Parliament. Devolved administrations retain control over all other matters.

England Options:

The bill offers two options for England: establishing a directly elected English Parliament or maintaining the current system with devolved powers to cities and regions through a referendum.

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland:

The bill seeks to enhance the powers of the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Parliament, and Northern Ireland Assembly by removing UK government intervention in several areas and streamlining financial arrangements.

House of Lords Options:

The bill presents two options for the House of Lords: abolition and restructuring (reducing the number of members and increasing the number of elected members). The decision on which option will be implemented is also subject to the commencement referendum.

Public Finance:

The bill outlines public finance principles emphasizing central financing of central functions, allowing subnational governments to raise their own taxes for local spending, and establishing a UK Funding Committee to oversee revenue sharing.

Referendum:

The bill mandates a UK-wide referendum to determine whether the proposed constitutional changes will take effect. Approval requires a 65% majority in the UK overall and a majority in each of the constituent nations. Separate questions in the referendum will address the English Parliament/devolution option, and the House of Lords option.

Government Spending

The bill's effect on UK government spending is complex and dependent on the outcome of the referendum and the chosen options for England and the House of Lords. No specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• UK Government: Reduced legislative control over non-central policy areas but increased responsibility for central areas.
• Devolved Administrations (Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland): Increased legislative and financial autonomy.
• English Government: Potential establishment of an English Parliament or increased regional devolution leading to a redistribution of power and responsibilities.
• House of Lords: Potential abolition or significant restructuring.
• Citizens of the UK: Potential changes to their political representation and the provision of public services depending on the outcome of the referendum and the choices made in the referendum.

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