Parliamentary Elections (Optional Preferential Vote) Bill

Key Points

• Introduces an optional preferential voting system for UK parliamentary elections.
• Allows voters to rank candidates if they wish, rather than voting for a single candidate.
• Provides a framework for how ranked votes would be counted and recognised alongside first preferences.
• Includes connected provisions to implement the system within electoral law and administration.
• Applies to parliamentary elections and related purposes; the Bill is at the first reading in the House of Commons.

Progress

The Bill is currently at its first reading in the House of Commons, having been introduced in the Commons. It has not yet progressed to detailed scrutiny or debate.