Comprehensive Overview of This Week’s Proposed Legislation: A Clear Explanation for the Public
Staying informed about the legislative activities in Parliament is essential for engaged citizenship. This week, members of Parliament (MPs) are scheduled to vote on a broad array of bills spanning various policy areas, from infrastructure and environmental initiatives to social issues and public health. Below, we provide a straightforward summary of these legislative proposals, highlighting their purpose and implications.
Monday, 9 June: Infrastructure and Planning Reforms
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is at the report stage and third reading. This legislation aims to accelerate the development of housing and infrastructure projects across England, Scotland (partially), Wales, and Northern Ireland. Key measures include empowering local councils to delegate more planning decisions to officers, reducing energy costs for residents near pylons, and updating guidelines for evaluating large infrastructure projects every five years. Read the draft bill.
Tuesday, 10 June: Freedom of Expression and Data Management
The proposed Freedom of Expression (Religion or Belief System) Bill seeks to strengthen protections allowing individuals to critique religious beliefs without fear of legal repercussions. Additionally, the Data (Use and Access) Bill, which has progressed from the House of Lords, aims to modernize data sharing—similar to open banking—allowing consumers to request their data from companies for new services, and to transition birth and death registrations to digital systems. Draft bill details.
Wednesday, 11 June: Fiscal Planning and Environmental Measures
The week’s focus shifts to financial planning with the Spending Review outlining government departmental budgets for upcoming years. The Letter Boxes (Positioning) Bill proposes banning low-front-door letter boxes in new buildings, addressing security and aesthetic concerns. The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Bill introduces a pricing guarantee for producers of greener jet fuel, funded through levies on traditional fuel suppliers, promoting sustainable aviation practices. More info.
Thursday, 12 June: No scheduled votes.
Friday, 13 June: Social & Environmental Justice, Public Services, and Public Health
The week culminates with a diverse set of bills, including:
- The Terminally Ill Adults (End of