Overview

This bill proposes a new mechanism for holding early general elections in the UK. It would allow for an early election if a public petition gathers sufficient signatures, demonstrating significant public support for dissolving Parliament before the standard five-year term.

Description

The bill amends the Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Act 2022. It introduces a new section (4A) that outlines a process for an early general election triggered by public petition.

• Petition Initiation: A petition for an early election can be initiated 2.5 years after Parliament first meets.
• Threshold 1 (Trigger): If the petition receives more than 10% of the votes cast in the previous general election, a 100-day signing period begins.
• Threshold 2 (Dissolution): If, within the 100-day period, the petition reaches over 50% of the votes cast in the previous general election, Parliament dissolves two weeks later.
• Eligibility: Only those eligible to vote in a general election can sign the petition. The bill requires verification of signatories' eligibility and allows for signing in person or by post.
• Parliamentary Approval: Regulations implementing this process require approval from both Houses of Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any changes to government spending. However, an early general election would incur costs associated with running the election campaign and the election itself.

Groups Affected

• Voters: Given the power to trigger an early election.
• Political Parties: Will need to adapt to the possibility of earlier elections.
• Government: Will face potential disruption if an early election is triggered.
• Electoral Commission: Will be responsible for overseeing the petition process and verifying signatures.

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