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Written question asked by Mark Pritchard (Conservative) on Tuesday, 22 April 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 24 April 2025. It was answered by Abena Oppong-Asare (Labour) on Thursday, 1 May 2025 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

Civil Defence

Question

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will amend the (a) Military Aid to the Civil Powers (Emergency Powers) Act 1964 and (b) Civil Contingencies Act 2004 to ensure parliamentary oversight during national crises.

Answer

The Civil Contingencies Act (CCA) 2004 and the associated Regulations deliver a single framework for civil protection in the UK. While emergency regulations could be brought into force immediately during a crisis they must be presented to Parliament as soon as practicable after being made, ensuring parliamentary oversight. The Cabinet Office has a legal obligation to review the CCA every five years. The most recent review was published in March 2022 and concluded that the Act continues to achieve its stated objectives.

The Ministry of Defence keeps all relevant legislation under review to ensure it remains fit for purpose and appropriate to the operational context, this includes the Emergency Powers Act 1964. Using the Emergency Powers Act requires Defence Council Order and considerable policy, legal and financial scrutiny including specific Ministerial approval.

There are no current plans to amend either of these Acts.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
46700
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Civil defence Military aid
Legislation
Emergency Powers Act 1964
Civil Contingencies Act 2004
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk