To repeal the European Communities Act 1972 and the Human Rights Act 1998; to introduce binding referendum powers at national and local level; to require the approval of Parliament to enter into international treaties and to declare war; to make provision about the work of Parliament; to devolve legislative responsibility for certain policy areas to local authorities; and for connected purposes.
House of Lords
13 November 2009
The Constitutional Reform Bill [HL] aims to make major constitutional changes in the UK. It would repeal the European Communities Act 1972 and the Human Rights Act 1998, replace them with new arrangements, and introduce binding referendums at national and local levels. It also requires Parliament’s approval for entering international treaties and for declaring war, sets out reforms to how Parliament works, and moves some policy responsibilities down to local authorities.
The bill is currently at the second reading in the Lords, meaning it has been introduced and is being debated in the Lords as it moves through the legislative process.
Generated 21 February 2026
First reading took place on 2 June. This stage is a formality that signals the start of the Bill's journey through the Lords.
Second reading - the general debate on all aspects of the Bill - is yet to be scheduled.
No recorded votes for this bill yet.
