The Legislative process - 2.3 Parliament - UK Government

Question 1

Legislative bill

Answer 1

A proposal for new law, or a change to an existing law which is brought before parliament. Can be introduced in Commons or Lords

Question 2

Act of Parliament

Answer 2

A bill that has completed all its stages in Parliament and has become law

Question 3

Types of bill

Answer 3

Government / public bill
Private bill
Hybrid bill
Private member’s bill

Question 4

Government/ public bill

Answer 4

Most important type of proposal that can be debated in parliament. Brought forward by government ministers to change public policy

Question 5

Private bill

Answer 5

Less common. Sponsored by an organisation with the intention of changing the law as it affects that organisation

Question 6

Hybrid bill

Answer 6

Characteristics of Private and public. Proposes changes to law that would affect general public but certain groups/ areas in particular (e.g. HS2)

Question 7

Private member’s bill

Answer 7

Affects whole population. Introduced by individual backbench MP or member of the Lords. less likely than a private bill to become law due to time

Question 8

Stages of legislative process

Answer 8

First reading (bill made available but not debated)
Second reading (bill debated & may be voted on if it is contested)
Committee stage (Bill is scrutinised by a public bill committee - amendments may be made if gov is prepared to accept them)
Report stage (Whole house considers amendments made by committees and may accept or reject them)
Third reading (amended bill debated and voted on by whole house)
HoL Stages (Bill goes through same stages in Lords except committee stage - Lord can propose amendments)
Bill may go back to Commons until no more amendments etc - parliamentary ping pong
Royal assent (formality)