Overview

This bill proposes creating a Citizens' Convention to set minimum ethical standards for Members of Parliament (MPs) and increase citizen involvement in political decision-making. The Convention will make recommendations on various aspects of parliamentary life, including MP expenses, election systems, and party funding. These recommendations will be presented to Parliament and could potentially be put to a referendum.

Description

The bill mandates the Electoral Commission to establish a Citizens' Convention within 12 months. This Convention will comprise at least 100 randomly selected voters, aiming for a representative cross-section of the UK population. The Convention's tasks include recommending minimum ethical standards for MPs, reviewing MP expenses and allowances, examining election systems, exploring mechanisms for holding MPs accountable (including recall), assessing parliamentary procedures, and reviewing political party funding. The Convention can conduct research, seek public input, and form sub-groups. It must publish its recommendations within 12 months of its establishment. The Prime Minister must present these recommendations to Parliament and propose a motion supporting them. A referendum will be held if Parliament rejects the motion and a 5% elector petition is submitted.

Government Spending

The bill will lead to government spending on the Convention's activities. This includes the remuneration and expenses of the Convention's members and staff, plus other operational costs. Specific figures are not provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

• Members of Parliament (MPs): The bill could significantly impact MPs through changes to their expenses, accountability mechanisms, and potentially the electoral system.
• Political Parties: The bill's proposals on party funding could affect how political parties are financed.
• Citizens/Voters: The bill aims to enhance citizen participation in political decision-making by establishing the Convention and potentially through referendums on its recommendations.
• The Electoral Commission: The Commission will have a crucial role in establishing and overseeing the Convention.
• The Government: The government will be responsible for funding the Convention and implementing (or not) its recommendations.

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