A Bill to clarify the meaning of ‘public authority’ in section 6 of the Human Rights Act 1998
This Bill would clarify the meaning of 'public authority' in section 6 of the Human Rights Act 1998. It would introduce a list of factors to be taken into account when considering whether a body is a 'public authority' for the purposes of that Act.
House of Commons
9 November 2009
May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.
This bill would clarify what counts as a 'public authority' under section 6 of the Human Rights Act 1998 by laying out a list of factors to guide when a body is considered a public authority. It would affect when the Human Rights Act applies to the actions or decisions of organisations, including some private bodies delivering public services. It does not change rights themselves, but explains how the Act should be applied.
The bill is at the second reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would move to committee stage for detailed examination and then further readings.
Generated 21 February 2026
26 Jan 2009
3 Jul 2009
This Bill was on the Order Paper 16 October, to resume the adjourned Second Reading from 3 July, but there was not enough time for debate on that day.
The Bill was on the Order Paper for a Second Reading on several Fridays before being dropped by its sponsor, Mr Andrew Dismore.
No recorded votes for this bill yet.
