Overview

The Citizens’ Convention Bill aims to establish a Citizens’ Convention to enhance public participation in UK governance. The Convention will make recommendations to the Secretary of State, who is obligated to consider and implement them.

Description

This bill mandates the establishment of a Citizens’ Convention within 12 months of its passing. The Secretary of State must consult various groups including those representing business, environmental interests, community groups, trade unions, and the voluntary sector before establishing the Convention. The Convention's composition and procedures will be determined by regulations made by the Secretary of State and approved by Parliament. These regulations must ensure representation from all UK regions and prioritize inclusion of under-represented groups, such as ethnic minorities, people living in poverty, disabled people, and those over 60 or under 25. The Convention will produce written reports with recommendations on improving UK governance. The Secretary of State must consider these recommendations, cooperate on implementation decisions, and then take necessary steps to implement them. The reports will be published.

Government Spending

The bill will incur expenses paid from public funds for the Convention's operations and ministerial involvement. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• General Public: Increased opportunities for participation in government decision-making.
• Under-represented groups: Targeted inclusion to ensure their voices are heard.
• Government: Increased responsibility to consider and implement the Convention's recommendations.
• Businesses, Environmental Groups, Trade Unions, Community Organisations, Voluntary Sector Organisations: Opportunities for consultation and input in the Convention's formation and operation.
• Parliament: Role in approving the regulations governing the Convention.

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