Overview

This bill amends the Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill. Key changes include altering the referendum date, setting a minimum voter turnout threshold for the referendum to be binding, and making adjustments to constituency boundary reviews, including public consultation processes.

Description

Referendum

The referendum date is changed from 5 May 2011 to a date before 31 October 2011. The Minister can change the date if holding it on 5 May is impossible or impractical, requiring parliamentary approval. The referendum result is not binding if less than 40% of the electorate votes.

Elections and Referendum Timing

The bill allows for flexibility in scheduling elections (Welsh Assembly, Scottish Parliament, and other local elections) in relation to the referendum, providing for necessary adaptations if they are not held on the same day.

Boundary Commissions and Constituency Changes

Amendments clarify the process for Boundary Commissions to submit reports and recommendations regarding constituency boundaries, including procedures for addressing exceptional circumstances and modifications. This includes more detailed provisions about public hearings and consultation periods, ensuring more robust community engagement.

Further Amendments

The bill includes various technical and procedural amendments related to registration officers, counting officers, and the provision of electoral registers and lists, ensuring consistency and streamlining administration.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, changes related to the referendum and constituency boundary reviews may have implications for administrative costs associated with these processes, although no specific financial projections were provided in the document

Groups Affected

• Voters: The 40% turnout threshold could affect the validity of the referendum result. Changes to the referendum and election dates may impact voter participation.
• Political Parties: The changes to constituency boundaries will affect party representation and electoral strategy.
• Boundary Commissions: The bill significantly alters their procedures for review and consultation.
• Electoral Officials: Amendments to administrative procedures will affect their responsibilities and workloads.
• Residents of Constituencies: Boundary changes will directly affect their representation and local governance. Increased public consultation should allow better engagement.

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