Overview

This bill mandates that UK government ministers consider including at least one person with relevant experience from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland on the boards of public bodies when making appointments. The aim is to improve representation from the devolved nations.

Description

The Public Bodies (Representation from Devolved Nations) Bill requires UK government ministers to consider the desirability of appointing at least one person with relevant experience from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland to the boards of public bodies. This duty applies to the ministers' actions in making or approving appointments, and to any guidance they issue on the appointment process. However, the duty does not extend to appointments that fall under the legislative powers of the Scottish Parliament, Senedd Cymru, or the Northern Ireland Assembly. A "public body" is defined as any body or person with functions of a public nature. The bill applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and comes into force 30 days after passing.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly impact government spending. The main cost will likely be administrative, relating to the consideration of candidates from the devolved nations during the appointment process.

Groups Affected

• UK Government Ministers: They will have a new duty to consider representation from the devolved nations when appointing board members to public bodies.
• Public Bodies: The composition of their boards may change to include individuals with experience from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
• Individuals from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland: They may have increased opportunities to serve on the boards of UK public bodies.

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