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Written question asked by Patrick Grady (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 24 November 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 30 November 2021 (named day). It was answered by Kemi Badenoch (Conservative) on Tuesday, 30 November 2021 on behalf of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Democracy: International Cooperation

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, if he will carry out an assessment of how the (a) Elections Bill and (b) the Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Bill align with the themes and goals of the Summit for Democracy being hosted by the President of the United States on 9-10 December 2021.

Answer

The Elections Bill delivers against the Government’s manifesto commitment to protect our democracy and ensure that it remains secure, fair, modern, and transparent.

The Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Bill seeks to return to tried-and-tested constitutional arrangements, which affirm the central role of the electorate. By repealing the Fixed-term Parliaments Act we will increase legal, constitutional and political certainty around the process for the dissolution of Parliament and the calling of a new Parliament, and reinforce public confidence in our democratic system.

The measures in these Bills, alongside wider work across government, support the core Summit for Democracy themes of strengthening democracy and defending against authoritarianism; fighting corruption; and promoting respect for human rights.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
81040
Session
2021-22
Subjects
Democracy Elections International cooperation Dissolution
Legislation
Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Bill 2021-22
Elections Bill 2021-22
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk