Criminal Fraud (Private Prosecutions) Bill

A Bill to make provision about private prosecutions in cases of suspected criminal fraud in certain circumstances; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Sponsor

Sir Christopher ChopeConservative

Parliament last updated

17 September 2019

In Plain English

AI-generated

May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.

This bill would change the rules around private prosecutions for suspected fraud. It aims to set out the circumstances in which a private individual or organisation can bring such a case and to cover related matters.

Key Points

Regulates private prosecutions in cases of suspected criminal fraud.
Specifies the circumstances under which a private prosecution may be brought.
Includes related provisions to govern connected aspects of private prosecutions.
Is a Private Member's Bill introduced by Sir Christopher Chope in the House of Commons.
Currently at the second reading in the Commons.

Progress

The bill is currently at the second reading stage in the House of Commons. It originated in 2017, with the provided stages showing early readings and no further progression listed beyond the second reading.

Who is affected?

Private individuals who may bring private prosecutions for fraudOrganisations or businesses considering or defending such prosecutionsPeople accused in private prosecutions for fraudLegal professionals (solicitors and barristers) involved in private prosecutionsVictims of fraud who rely on private prosecutions as a remedy

Generated 21 February 2026

Bill Stages

1st readingCommons

5 Sept 2017

2nd readingCommons

23 Nov 2018

Committee stageCommons

Report stageCommons

3rd readingCommons

1st readingLords

2nd readingLords

Committee stageLords

Report stageLords

3rd readingLords

Royal Assent

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Criminal Fraud (Private Prosecutions)

1 Jan 1970

The Bill failed to complete its passage through Parliament before the end of the session. This means the Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.