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.
The Constitutional Reform Bill was introduced on 19 November 2009 by Lord Willoughby de Broke. Lord Willoughby de Broke also introduced the Bill in the 2008-09 session of Parliament on 2 July 2009. Key areasThe Bill would repeal the European Communities Act 1972 and the Human Rights Act 1998.The House of Commons would be reduced in size to 250 Members and left in charge only of “national reserved matters”, defined as: the national treasury; defence; foreign affairs; border control; criminal law; agriculture; fisheries and food; national energy and transport policy; the national education curriculum and teaching qualifications; and medical and nursing qualifications.Legislative responsibility for areas which are not defined as “national reserved matters” would be devolved to local authorities.MPs would be limited to a salary of £30,000, with an expense allowance of up to £170,000. The Commons would not sit for more than 100 days in a year unless in an emergency.The Bill would introduce binding referendum powers at national and local level.Within seven years of the passing of the Act, a national referendum would be held on reform of the House of Lords.The approval of Parliament would be required to enter into international treaties or declare war.
House of Lords
14 April 2010
The Constitutional Reform Bill would repeal the European Communities Act 1972 and the Human Rights Act 1998. It would shrink the House of Commons to 250 MPs, transfer most policy powers to local authorities, introduce binding referendums at national and local levels, and require Parliament’s approval to enter international treaties or declare war. It also reshapes how Parliament works, including MPs’ pay and maximum sitting days per year.
As of now, the bill is at the 2nd reading in the House of Lords. It was introduced in November 2009 by Lord Willoughby de Broke (and previously in 2008-09).
Generated 21 February 2026
During second reading of the Bill on 5 February, a wide-ranging discussion took place on issues including House of Lords reform and the parliamentary system.
The 2009-10 session of parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.
No recorded votes for this bill yet.
