Overview

This bill repeals the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, restoring the power to call early general elections to the monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister. It sets the date for the next general election, and determines the process for dissolving Parliament.

Description

The bill's main purpose is to repeal the 2011 Act, which previously fixed general elections to occur every five years unless a two-thirds vote in Parliament triggered an early election. This bill removes that restriction.

Key Changes:

• Section 2: Sets the next general election for May 2nd, 2024 unless an early election is called.
• Section 3: Allows the monarch, upon the Prime Minister's advice, to dissolve Parliament and call an early general election at any time.
• Section 4: Outlines the process for Parliament’s dissolution and the issuing of writs for a general election.
• Section 5: Confirms the monarch's power to prorogue Parliament and ensures the bill does not affect the usual processes of issuing proclamations.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The repeal of the 2011 Act itself will have minimal financial implications. Any indirect costs associated with an early election would depend on the timing and circumstances.

Groups Affected

• The Monarch: Regains the power to dissolve Parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister.
• The Prime Minister: Gains greater flexibility in calling general elections.
• Parliament: Loses the fixed-term election guarantee, increasing the likelihood of snap elections.
• Political Parties: Will need to adapt to the possibility of earlier elections, affecting campaigning and resource allocation.
• Voters: May face more frequent general elections.

Powered by nyModel