Overview

This bill mandates the Prime Minister to request an extension to the Article 50 deadline (initially March 29th, 2019) for the UK's withdrawal from the European Union, if Parliament hasn't approved a withdrawal agreement by February 26th, 2019. The proposed extension is to December 31st, 2019, unless Parliament amends the motion to suggest a different date.

Description

The European Union (Withdrawal) (No. 3) Bill compels the Prime Minister to seek a delay to Brexit if no agreement is reached by Parliament by February 26th, 2019. Specifically:

• Mandatory Motion: If Parliament doesn't approve a deal by February 26th, the Prime Minister must table a motion to request an extension until December 31st, 2019.
• Parliamentary Amendments: Parliament can amend the motion, altering the proposed extension date. The Prime Minister is obligated to reflect these amendments in their extension request.
• Flexibility: The bill doesn't prevent the Prime Minister from seeking an extension independently, outside the provisions of the bill.
• Legal Amendment: The bill amends the 2018 EU Withdrawal Act, changing the "exit day" from March 29th, 2019 to December 31st, 2019 (or another date if amended). This change takes effect only if the EU agrees to extend the Article 50 period.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly allocate or change government spending. However, extending the Brexit process will likely incur additional costs related to ongoing EU membership contributions, administrative expenses and potential economic consequences. Precise figures are not provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

• Government: The bill directly affects the government's Brexit negotiations and the Prime Minister's actions.
• Parliament: Parliament has a crucial role in determining the Brexit extension date.
• Businesses: Uncertainty surrounding Brexit's timeline continues, potentially affecting business planning and investment.
• Citizens: The extended deadline affects citizens' rights and future relationship with the EU.
• European Union: The EU is directly involved in granting or denying an extension to Article 50.

Powered by nyModel