Overview

This bill proposes the creation of a commission to regularly audit the economic, security, and constitutional costs and benefits of the UK's membership in the European Union. The commission will report its findings to Parliament every five years.

Description

The bill mandates the Chancellor of the Exchequer to establish a seven-member EU Membership Audit Commission. The commission's members will be appointed with a balance of pro- and anti-EU views, and the chair must be neutral. Former MEPs or EU Commission employees are ineligible. The commission will examine the costs and benefits of EU membership across three key areas: the UK economy (including direct public spending and revenue), national security and defence, and constitutional arrangements. The commission's first report is due within 12 months of its appointment, with subsequent reports every five years. The reports will be submitted to Parliament and reviewed by the National Audit Office. A government minister will then present the reports to Parliament and comment on its findings.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenses incurred by the Treasury in establishing and supporting the commission will be funded by Parliament. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• UK Government: Responsible for appointing the commission and funding its operations. The government's policy on EU membership will be subject to scrutiny by the commission's reports.
• Parliament: Will receive and debate the commission's reports, potentially influencing future policy on EU membership.
• National Audit Office: Will review the commission's reports and provide their assessment to Parliament.
• Pro- and Anti-EU groups: The commission’s findings could influence public and political debate surrounding UK membership of the EU.

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