Overview

This bill proposes creating an independent commission to organize televised debates between political party leaders during general election campaigns. The commission would be responsible for ensuring a minimum number of debates, with specific rules designed to encourage genuine discussion and discourage pre-prepared speeches.

Description

The bill establishes a commission independent of the government to organize televised leaders' debates during general elections. The commission will:

• Oversee at least three televised debates.
• Ensure at least one debate includes leaders of all parties represented in the House of Commons.
• Ensure at least two debates include leaders of the two largest parties in the House of Commons.
• Require participation of party leaders (no substitutes allowed).
• Potentially invite leaders of smaller, unrepresented parties.
• Publish debate rules designed to promote interactive discussion and discourage pre-prepared speeches.
• Have seven members appointed from various sources (Speaker of the House of Commons, broadcasters, leaders of the largest two parties).
• Be funded by broadcasters through agreement, with a potential levy imposed by the Secretary of State if an agreement isn't reached.

Government Spending

Government spending is not directly affected unless broadcasters fail to reach a funding agreement. In that case, the Secretary of State may introduce a levy on broadcasters to cover the commission's operating expenses, ensuring these costs do not exceed the actual expenses incurred over the course of a Parliament and subsequent election period.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Political Parties: Will be required to participate in the debates, potentially influencing election campaigns and public perception.
• Television Broadcasters: Responsible for funding the commission, either through agreement or a potential levy.
• The Public: Will have increased access to televised leader debates, potentially impacting their voting decisions.
• The Speaker of the House of Commons: Nominates three members of the commission including the Chair.

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