Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) Bill

Key Points

• Applies to a wide range of UK public bodies when they make economic decisions (including procurement, investments and contracts).
• Prohibits taking into account political or moral disapproval of foreign states, subject to defined exceptions for legitimate grounds (e.g., legal or security considerations).
• Contains specified exceptions that allow certain factors to be considered where legally appropriate or necessary.
• Could affect how public bodies procure technology and other goods/services by limiting overseas political influences.
• Originated in the House of Commons and is currently in the House of Lords at Committee stage after passing the Commons.

Progress

The bill started in the Commons, where it completed its passage including third reading in January 2024, and is now being considered by the Lords, where it is at Committee stage.

Voting

In Commons divisions, Labour and several opposition parties backed the bill, while the Conservative Party largely opposed (with Reform UK and DUP also voting against in some divisions). Sinn Féin MPs did not cast votes in these divisions, and the Speaker did not vote.