Overview

This bill amends the Local Government Act 1972 to allow for the extension of freemanship rights in cities and towns to women and to make other amendments to admission procedures. It also grants powers to admit honorary freemen in certain places within the Cinque Ports Confederation.

Description

Amendment of existing freemanship rights

The bill primarily focuses on amending the existing laws governing admission to the freedom of cities and towns. It allows for amendments to be made to existing rules, including royal charters, to grant women the right to be admitted as freemen where men currently hold that right. The amendments must be passed by a majority vote of registered freemen (at least 10% participation required), via postal ballot. Amendments are then notified to the relevant local council.

Consequential Amendments

The bill also permits consequential amendments to be made to ensure that women admitted as freemen under the new rules, and those related to them, are treated equally to existing freemen and their associates.

Honorary Freeman in the Cinque Ports

The bill extends the power to appoint honorary freemen to include certain places within the Cinque Ports Confederation, specifically those with charter trustees.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant impact on UK government spending. The cost will be borne by the local authorities and the Cinque Ports relevant areas, which will manage the changes to admission procedures and administration.

Groups Affected

• Women: The bill directly benefits women by enabling them to access freemanship rights in cities and towns where previously they were excluded.
• Registered Freemen: They will be involved in voting on any proposed amendments to freemanship rules via postal ballot.
• Local Councils: They will receive notifications of any amendments and be responsible for implementing the changes.
• Cinque Ports: Specific areas within the Cinque Ports will gain the power to appoint honorary freemen.

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