Overview

This bill amends existing laws to disqualify individuals from holding certain local government positions in England if they are subject to sexual offences notification requirements or relevant sexual harm prevention orders. The changes apply to members of local authorities, combined authority mayors, and the Mayor of London and London Assembly members.

Description

The Local Government (Disqualification) Bill adds new grounds for disqualification from various local government roles in England. Specifically, it prevents individuals subject to sexual offences notification requirements (as defined under various Acts across England, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man) or specific sexual harm prevention orders from being elected or holding office. These changes are incorporated into several existing Acts, including the Local Government Act 1972, the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009, and the Greater London Authority Act 1999. The bill also includes a transitional provision, ensuring that individuals already subject to these requirements before the bill's enactment are not disqualified retrospectively. Finally, the bill allows for adjustments to be made to account for changes in legislation in the Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The administrative costs associated with implementing the changes are likely to be minimal.

Groups Affected

• Individuals with sexual offence convictions or subject to relevant orders: These individuals will be disqualified from holding various local government positions in England.
• Local authorities in England: These bodies will need to update their processes to reflect the new disqualification criteria.
• Combined authorities and their mayors: Similar to local authorities, they will need to adapt their election and appointment processes.
• The Greater London Authority, Mayor of London, and London Assembly members: The bill directly impacts eligibility for these roles.
• Electoral bodies: These bodies will have to implement the changes within their electoral processes.

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