Overview

This European Union Bill outlines conditions under which the UK government can ratify treaties or approve decisions from the European Union. It introduces requirements for referendums and parliamentary approvals depending on the nature of the EU decision, aiming to increase parliamentary scrutiny and public involvement in key EU-related matters.

Description

The bill focuses on amending the process for the UK to engage with the European Union. Key changes include:

• Referendum Thresholds: The bill introduces a 40% voter turnout threshold for referendums on certain EU treaties and decisions. If less than 40% of eligible voters participate, parliamentary approval is required before ratification or approval.
• Parliamentary Scrutiny: The bill enhances parliamentary oversight by requiring parliamentary approval for significant EU decisions, even if the referendum threshold is met. This applies to decisions relating to EU defence, the adoption of the euro, and the removal of border controls (Schengen Agreement).
• EU Law Status: The bill clarifies that the legal status of EU law in the UK depends on continuing statutory basis, meaning that the legal effect of EU laws within UK jurisdiction depends on continued enabling legislation.
• Sunset Clause (Disagreed Upon): A proposed sunset clause to expire parts of the Bill after the current Parliament dissolves has been rejected by the Commons.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly allocate specific sums of government spending. However, depending on the outcomes of referendums and parliamentary votes, the bill could indirectly influence government spending in areas affected by EU decisions. The potential financial impacts are difficult to quantify without knowing the specific EU decisions under consideration.

Groups Affected

• UK Parliament: The bill significantly increases the Parliament's role in EU-related decisions, granting them greater scrutiny and control.
• UK Government: The government faces increased constraints in ratifying treaties and approving EU decisions.
• Voters: The bill gives voters more influence via referendums, but participation requirements could potentially limit this impact.
• Businesses: The bill could have an indirect impact on businesses operating within the UK due to its effect on UK-EU relations.

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