Overview

This bill repeals the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, returning the power to call general elections to the monarch, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister. It sets the default election date as the first Thursday in May, five years after the previous election, unless an early election is called.

Description

The bill's main aim is to abolish the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011. This Act previously dictated that general elections would be held every five years unless two-thirds of Parliament voted for an early election or a vote of no confidence succeeded. This bill removes that requirement.

Key Changes:

• Repeal of the 2011 Act: The Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011 is completely repealed.
• Election Timing: The default general election date will be the first Thursday in May, five years after the previous election.
• Early Elections: The monarch can call an early general election via proclamation, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister.
• Dissolution of Parliament: Parliament dissolves 25 working days before the election (excluding weekends, bank holidays, and public holidays).
• Legal Protection: The bill states that the exercise of the monarch's powers under this act cannot be challenged in court.

Government Spending

The bill is unlikely to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The repeal of the 2011 Act will not involve substantial additional costs or savings.

Groups Affected

• The Monarch: Regains the power to dissolve Parliament and call elections.
• The Prime Minister: Gains the power to advise the monarch on calling early elections.
• Parliament: Loses the power to control the timing of general elections unless a vote of no confidence succeeds.
• Political Parties: Will need to adapt to a system with less predictable election dates.
• Voters: May experience more frequent general elections.

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