Overview

The Wellbeing of Future Generations (No.2) Bill aims to improve the UK's long-term wellbeing by requiring public bodies to consider the needs of future generations in their decision-making. It establishes a Future Generations Commissioner to oversee this process, a Joint Parliamentary Committee to scrutinize long-term policy, and introduces a requirement for public bodies to conduct future generations impact assessments.

Description

Sustainable Development and Wellbeing Duty

The bill defines sustainable development and mandates public bodies to pursue it by setting and achieving wellbeing objectives aligned with specific goals (prosperity, resilience, health, equality, community, culture, and global responsibility). It emphasizes the "future generations principle"—meeting present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet theirs.

The Future Generations Commissioner

The bill creates a Future Generations Commissioner for the UK, appointed by the Prime Minister in consultation with devolved administrations. The Commissioner monitors public bodies' actions, conducts reviews and investigations, makes recommendations, and publishes annual reports assessing progress towards wellbeing objectives.

Joint Committee on Future Generations

A Joint Parliamentary Committee on Future Generations is established, comprising members from both Houses of Parliament. The Committee examines legislation with a long-term perspective, proposes amendments, conducts inquiries, and participates in the Commissioner's appointment process.

Impact Assessments and Preventative Spending

Public bodies must publish future generations impact assessments when proposing policy or spending changes and report annually on their preventative spending, categorized as primary, secondary, tertiary, and acute prevention.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for increased government spending. However, it will likely entail costs associated with establishing the Commissioner's office, the Joint Committee, and increased reporting requirements for public bodies. The focus on preventative spending aims for long-term cost savings by addressing issues earlier.

Groups Affected

• Public bodies: Increased responsibilities to set wellbeing objectives, conduct impact assessments, report on progress, and incorporate the future generations principle into their work.
• Government departments: Specific requirements for setting and reviewing wellbeing objectives, publishing reports, and collaborating with the Commissioner.
• The Future Generations Commissioner: New responsibilities for monitoring, reviewing, investigating, and reporting on public bodies' performance.
• Joint Committee on Future Generations: New responsibilities for scrutinizing legislation and policy from a long-term perspective.
• Citizens: Potential for increased public engagement and transparency in government decision-making affecting the long-term future.

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