Overview

This bill introduces a system for recalling elected representatives in England and Wales. If 1% of registered voters in a constituency sign a notice of intent, a recall petition is triggered. If at least 20% of registered voters then sign the petition, a recall election is held. If a majority vote to recall the representative, a by-election is held (or a replacement is chosen under proportional representation).

Description

Recall Petition Process

The process begins with a notice of intent signed by 1% of registered voters expressing lost confidence in their elected representative. A returning officer verifies the petition and, if valid, gives notice that a recall petition is underway. The petition is then available for signature for eight weeks.

Petition Success and Recall Election

A recall petition succeeds if at least 20% of registered voters sign it. A recall election is then held within two months. The ballot question asks if the representative should be recalled. If a majority votes "yes," the representative is recalled.

By-Elections and Proportional Representation

If the representative was elected under a "first past the post" system, a by-election is held within two months. If elected under proportional representation, the replacement is chosen according to rules set by the Secretary of State.

Rules and Regulations

The Secretary of State will create rules for petition submission and recall elections within six months of the bill passing. These rules are subject to parliamentary approval.

Government Spending

The costs of by-elections resulting from successful recall petitions will be paid from the Consolidated Fund. The costs of recall petitions and recall elections themselves will be covered by the relevant local authority, without affecting central government grants. Specific figures are not provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

Groups affected include:

• Elected Representatives: Risk of recall and potential loss of office.
• Voters: Gain a mechanism to remove underperforming representatives.
• Local Authorities: Responsible for funding the petitions and elections.
• Returning Officers: Responsible for overseeing the petition and election processes.

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