Overview

This bill introduces a system for recalling elected representatives in England and Wales. If 10% of registered voters sign a petition alleging misconduct or loss of confidence, a recall election will be held. The successful outcome of the recall election will either trigger a by-election or lead to the next candidate on the party list taking the seat, depending on the electoral system used.

Description

The bill allows for the recall of elected representatives (MPs, MEPs, local councillors, and mayors) in England and Wales under specific circumstances. A recall petition requires the signatures of at least 10% of registered voters in the representative's constituency. To be valid, the petition must demonstrate the representative engaged in financially dishonest or disreputable actions, intentionally misled their electorate, broke election promises, behaved in a way damaging to their office, or lost the electorate’s confidence. The Secretary of State will establish rules for petition procedures, including voter registration definitions, Returning Officer designation, and signature verification. Guidance will also be provided to Returning Officers on assessing petition grounds. If a recall election results in a “Yes” vote exceeding “No” votes, the representative is recalled. A by-election will follow for first-past-the-post or alternative vote systems; for proportional representation, the next candidate on the party list takes the seat. The Secretary of State will set rules for recall elections, including voting eligibility and procedures.

Government Spending

The bill mandates government spending to cover the Secretary of State’s costs in implementing the recall system, along with any additional expenses arising from other acts due to this bill. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Elected Representatives: Risk recall if a sufficient number of voters sign a petition alleging misconduct.
• Voters: Gain the power to initiate recall petitions and participate in recall elections.
• Returning Officers: Responsible for verifying petitions and overseeing recall elections.
• Political Parties: Affected by the potential for by-elections or changes in representation under proportional representation.
• The Secretary of State: Responsible for creating rules and guidance for the recall process.

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