Overview

This Trade Bill amendment focuses on ensuring that the UK does not enter into trade agreements with countries committing genocide or other serious human rights abuses. It establishes processes for parliamentary scrutiny and potential action if such violations are identified.

Description

The bill underwent several revisions. The final version (Amendment 3E) creates a Parliamentary Judicial Committee (PJC) composed of five former high-ranking judges. If either the House of Commons or Lords' select committee identifies credible reports of genocide by a trade partner, the matter is referred to the PJC for a preliminary determination. The Secretary of State then responds, and if the committee remains unsatisfied, a motion for debate and a vote in the Commons (or a motion for debate in the Lords) will follow. The government is also required to make regulations for the establishment and operation of the PJC and the details of the referral and determination process. The PJC's determination will be a public finding; however it does not directly trigger revocation of trade agreements.

Government Spending

The bill will require government spending for the establishment and operation of the PJC, including member appointments, administrative support, and potentially legal costs associated with hearings. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• UK Parliament: Increased scrutiny and debate on trade agreements.
• Government: Increased responsibility for responding to committee reports and potential action regarding trade agreements.
• The Parliamentary Judicial Committee (PJC): New body created to make preliminary findings on genocide.
• Victims of genocide: Potential for increased attention to and investigation of atrocities.
• Countries accused of genocide: Potential for trade agreements to be reviewed and possibly terminated.

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