Commons2nd reading

Rule of Law (Enforcement by Public Authorities) Bill

A Bill to require public authorities to exercise their statutory powers to investigate and take enforcement action for breaches of the law; to make provision for sanctions for failing to take such action; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Sponsor

Sir Christopher ChopeConservative

Parliament last updated

6 May 2021

In Plain English

AI-generated

May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.

This bill would require public authorities to actively use their statutory powers to investigate breaches and take enforcement action. It also introduces sanctions if authorities fail to act, and includes related provisions to support accountability for enforcement. In short, it aims to strengthen the link between public bodies and the enforcement of the law.

Key Points

Public authorities would be under a duty to exercise their statutory powers to investigate and enforce breaches of the law.
The bill provides for sanctions or penalties if authorities do not take appropriate enforcement action.
It includes connected provisions to support enforcement and accountability (the exact scope would be set out in the text of the bill).
The bill is a Commons-originating measure sponsored by Sir Christopher Chope and is at the 2nd reading stage.

Progress

The bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons. It originated in the Commons and had its first reading on 3 March 2020.

Who is affected?

Public authorities (local and central government bodies, agencies) affected by the duty to enforceMembers of the public who rely on enforcement of the lawBusinesses and organisations that may be subject to enforcement actions by authorities

Generated 21 February 2026

Bill Stages

1st readingCommons

3 Mar 2020

2nd readingCommons

Committee stageCommons

Report stageCommons

3rd readingCommons

1st readingLords

2nd readingLords

Committee stageLords

Report stageLords

3rd readingLords

Royal Assent

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Rule of Law (Enforcement by Public Authorities)

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.

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