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
This bill aims to clarify who counts as a 'public authority' under the Human Rights Act 1998 by introducing a list of factors to guide decisions about whether a body is a public authority for the purposes of the Act. It seeks to make it clearer when organisations beyond traditional government bodies are covered by human rights protections and obligations.
The Bill is currently at the second reading in the House of Commons, and would proceed through the standard parliamentary stages if it advances.
Generated 21 February 2026
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.
