Overview

This bill, the European Union (Withdrawal) (No. 6) Bill, dictates the UK government's actions regarding Brexit negotiations and the potential extension of Article 50. It outlines conditions for leaving with or without a deal, and mandates requesting an extension of the Article 50 deadline to January 31st, 2020, unless Parliament approves alternative arrangements.

Description

The bill sets out several key actions:

• Parliamentary Approval for Leaving: The bill requires parliamentary approval before the UK leaves the EU, either with or without a deal. This approval takes the form of specific motions debated and voted on in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
• Article 50 Extension Request: If Parliament doesn't approve leaving with or without a deal by October 19th, 2019, the Prime Minister must request an extension to the Article 50 deadline from the European Council, pushing the Brexit date to January 31st, 2020. This request is to allow time to debate and pass legislation implementing a withdrawal agreement.
• Progress Reports: If an extension is granted, the Secretary of State must publish reports on the progress of Brexit negotiations, with further reports due every 28 days until an agreement is reached.
• Amendment to Existing Legislation: The bill amends the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, changing "may" to "must" regarding regulations amending the definition of "exit day".
• Overriding Provisions: The bill's provisions override any other laws that might require the UK to leave the EU on a specific date.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any new government spending. However, the potential extension of the Brexit deadline could lead to increased costs associated with ongoing negotiations, preparation for different Brexit scenarios, and potential administrative burdens.

Groups Affected

• UK Government: The bill places significant obligations on the government, including negotiating with the EU, publishing reports, and requesting an Article 50 extension.
• UK Parliament: Parliament plays a crucial role in approving or rejecting the government's plans regarding Brexit. The bill significantly increases parliamentary oversight and involvement.
• Businesses: Businesses will continue to face uncertainty until Brexit is resolved, and the extension could prolong this uncertainty. The nature and extent of the impact will depend on the eventual Brexit outcome.
• Citizens: Citizens will be affected by the final Brexit outcome, whatever form it takes. The prolonged uncertainty could cause anxiety and affect various aspects of life.
• European Union: The EU will need to respond to the UK's request for an extension and continue its negotiations with the UK.

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