Overview

The United Kingdom Parliamentary Sovereignty Bill aims to reaffirm the supremacy of the UK Parliament and restrict the government's ability to sign or implement treaties that undermine parliamentary sovereignty or expand the European Union's powers without a public referendum.

Description

This bill asserts the sovereignty of the UK Parliament. Key aspects include:

• Reaffirmation of Parliamentary Sovereignty: The bill explicitly restates the supreme authority of the UK Parliament.
• Restrictions on Treaties: Ministers are prohibited from signing, ratifying, or implementing any treaty or law inconsistent with the bill, or that increases EU functions affecting the UK without a prior UK-wide referendum.
• Judicial Interpretation: Courts must interpret the bill as overriding any conflicting laws, including the European Communities Act 1972, prerogative powers, or rules of international law, unless another Act specifically states otherwise and includes a referendum requirement.
• Royal Assent Restrictions: The Queen cannot give Royal Assent to any bill that violates this Act, or amends it, unless it's approved by both Houses of Parliament and in a subsequent referendum.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any new government spending. However, potential costs could arise from organizing and conducting referendums if triggered by future treaties or legislation.

Groups Affected

• Government Ministers: Significantly limits their power to commit the UK to international agreements without parliamentary and public approval.
• UK Parliament: Reinforces its legislative supremacy.
• Courts: Requires them to interpret laws in line with the bill's prioritization of parliamentary sovereignty.
• The Public: Could be involved in referendums on treaties and legislation impacting the UK's relationship with the EU.

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