Overview

This bill repeals the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, restoring the power to the monarch to dissolve Parliament and call a general election at their discretion, subject to certain conditions related to polling day timing.

Description

The bill repeals the 2011 Act, which previously set fixed five-year terms for Parliaments. It establishes new rules for determining general election dates:

• Polling Day: The next election will be on May 2nd, 2024, unless an early election is called. Subsequent elections will be on the first Thursday five years after the previous election, unless an early election is called.
• Early Elections: The monarch can dissolve Parliament and call an early election by royal proclamation, setting the election date.
• Parliament Dissolution: Parliament dissolves 25 working days before the election. Working days exclude weekends, bank holidays, and public holidays.
• Process: After Parliament dissolves, the Lord Chancellor (and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland) issues election writs. The monarch then issues a proclamation summoning the new Parliament, setting its first meeting date.
• Judicial Review: The monarch's powers under this Act, and any advice given, cannot be challenged in court.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The repeal of the 2011 Act itself will not incur any costs.

Groups Affected

This bill impacts various groups:

• The Monarch: Regains the power to dissolve Parliament.
• The Government: Has greater flexibility in calling elections.
• Political Parties: Will need to adapt to a more unpredictable election cycle.
• Electoral Commission: Will need to prepare for elections under a revised system.
• Voters: May experience elections at times different than previously scheduled.

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